Adult Critical Care Specialty (ACCS) Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success

Lactic acidosis is a metabolic condition often seen in critically ill patients, characterized by an increased concentration of lactic acid in the bloodstream. The management of lactic acidosis focuses on addressing the root cause of the issue, which typically involves improving tissue perfusion and oxygenation.

When addressing lactic acidosis, it is crucial to identify and treat the underlying problem, such as sepsis, shock, or hypoxia, to prevent further lactic acid production. Optimizing perfusion is essential because adequate blood flow ensures that tissues receive enough oxygen, which helps to normalize metabolic processes and reduce lactic acid levels.

In critically ill patients, simply administering sodium bicarbonate may transiently raise pH levels but does not address the underlying etiology of the acidosis nor does it effectively reduce lactic acid production. Increasing fluid intake can be beneficial but is generally part of the overall strategy to enhance perfusion and must be tailored to the patient's individual needs. Reducing physical activity in an acute care setting is less relevant for managing lactic acidosis and is not a primary strategy in treating critically ill patients.

Thus, treating the underlying cause and optimizing perfusion is the most effective approach to managing lactic acidosis in this population, as it addresses both the