How to Answer: Why is measuring a patient's pH levels important?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Respiratory Therapists job interview.
29. Why is measuring a patient's pH levels important?
How to Answer
Draw from what you have learned in your experience and education. If a patient is more acidic, explain how that affects the oxygen going to the brain. Describe what you know about Respiratory Acidosis and acid-base balance. Be sure to familiarize yourself with terms like these before the interview.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 3rd, 2021
Entry Level
"While I haven't worked directly with a patient that was experiencing a high pH level, I learned in my training what the effects could be. High pH levels indicate respiratory acidosis and can cause patients to experience breathing trouble as well as other symptoms like headaches and confusion. If these symptoms are noticed, I will notify the patient's physician to have a blood test ordered to confirm."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 3rd, 2021
Answer Example
"Having treated patients with respiratory acidosis, I know that symptoms can vary based on the severity of the patient's pH level. These patients experience a higher level of CO2 in their lungs which can cause fatigue, memory loss, and difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, muscle jerking and arrhythmias can occur. A simple blood test ordered by a physician can give all of the answers needed to see if this is the main cause in our patients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 3rd, 2021
Experienced
"Working in an ICU, I've had many patients with bad cases of COPD and pneumonia that experienced high pH levels. With these patients, high levels of CO2 in the lungs have elevated the acid level in their blood. If I sense this is the case, I start with a lung function test. If results there are showing reduced functioning, the physician can perform further tests and a treatment plan can be made from there if confirmed."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 3rd, 2021