Winters' formula

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Winters' formula, named for Dr. R.W. Winters, is a formula used to evaluate respiratory compensation when analyzing acid-base disorders and a metabolic acidosis is present. It can be given as

${\displaystyle P_{CO_{2}}=(1.5\times HCO_{3}^{-})+8\pm 2}$,

where HCO3^- is given in units of mEq/L and pCO₂ will be in units of mmHg.

Winters' formula gives an expected value for the patient's P_CO2; the patient's actual (measured) P_CO2 is then compared to this:

• If the two values correspond, respiratory compensation is considered to be adequate.
• If the measured P_CO2 is higher than the calculated value, there is also a primary respiratory acidosis.
• If the measured P_CO2 is lower than the calculated value, there is also a primary respiratory alkalosis.

Video Winters' formula

See Also

• Summer's Formula

Maps Winters' formula

References

Source of the article : Wikipedia