ECG & ABG Interpretation for PLAB 2 and Foundation Doctors

KILL — First 5-Second Scan

Do this BEFORE anything else. Any one of these = immediate action required.

RRAIS — Systematic Reading

ECG Emergencies — tap to reveal immediate action

BAD — First 5-Second Scan

Before the systematic approach — any one of these needs action now.

ROME Rule + Winter's Formula

Respiratory = Opposite (pH and CO₂ go in opposite directions). Metabolic = Equal (pH and HCO₃ go in the same direction).

Winter's Formula: Expected PaCO₂ = (1.5 × HCO₃) + 8 ± 2 mmHg, i.e. divide by 7.5 for kPa: [(1.5 × HCO₃) + 8] ÷ 7.5 ± 0.3 kPa. If actual PaCO₂ ≠ expected = mixed disorder present.

5-Step Systematic Approach

ABG Patterns with Immediate Actions

Think Like an Examiner · Speak Like a Doctor · Perform With Confidence

Sourced from Chapter 70 of the AMaC PLAB 2 Master Series Volume 3.

An interpretation aid, not a substitute for clinical judgement. Discuss abnormal findings with a senior and follow your trust’s protocol.