November 1, 2016 (Vol. 36, No. 19)
URL:
Rating:
Strong Points: Functional, easy to use
Weak Points: Minimal functionality, expensive
Platform:
iPad/iPhone/Android
Cost:
Android $2.99, Apple $3.99
Summary:
Acid Plus—the ABG Calculator is a clinical tool that allows medical professionals to quickly determine if a patient’s arterial blood gas levels are normal. The app lets the user input the pH, pCO2, Na+, Cl−, and HCO3 levels, and as an output the app states whether the levels are normal or not—based on the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation. The app allows the user to customize the settings, and measurements can be given in either mmHg or in kPa. If the numbers don’t add up, the user gets an error message saying that the values violate the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation and instructing them to recheck them. If the app determines that metabolic acidosis is present based on the values, more information is given for potential causes. The app is functional and easy to use, and could be a useful diagnostic aid for clinicians who need to double-check a patient’s ABG levels.
