Vasopressors & Inotropes Practice Test

How does alkalosis affect ionized calcium?

Decreases ionized calcium Increases ionized calcium No change Variable

Correct Answer:

Decreases ionized calcium

Explanation:

Alkalosis raises blood pH, which increases albumin’s affinity for calcium. Since most calcium is bound to albumin, tighter binding leaves less calcium in the free, ionized form. Ionized calcium is the physiologically active fraction, so alkalosis leads to a decrease in ionized calcium even if total calcium stays the same. (For contrast, acidosis tends to increase ionized calcium by reducing binding.)

Access more questions from this quiz

Continue to Vasopressors & Inotropes Practice Test for more practice questions and the full quiz experience.

Access More Questions