NORCET Conquest V3.0
Phase 0: Foundations & Math
The Essential Scientific Bedrock - High-Yield Science & Calculations
4-6 hours
Module Overview
This module covers the essential scientific foundations and calculation skills needed for NORCET success. Master these concepts to solve any ABG or nursing calculation question quickly and accurately.
1Acid-Base Balance (The 'ROME' Method)
Target: Solve any ABG question in less than 30 seconds!
1. Normal Values (Memorize These)
| Parameter | Normal Range | Key Point |
|---|---|---|
| pH | 7.35 – 7.45 | Absolute Normal: 7.40 |
| PaCO₂ (Respiratory) | 35 – 45 mmHg | Acidic if > 45 |
| HCO₃⁻ (Metabolic) | 22 – 26 mEq/L | Basic if > 26 |
2. The ROME Mnemonic
Respiratory = Opposite
- ↑ pH + ↓ PCO₂ = Respiratory Alkalosis
- ↓ pH + ↑ PCO₂ = Respiratory Acidosis
Metabolic = Equal
- ↑ pH + ↑ HCO₃⁻ = Metabolic Alkalosis
- ↓ pH + ↓ HCO₃⁻ = Metabolic Acidosis
3. Compensation Cheat Sheet
| Condition | pH | PaCO₂ | HCO₃⁻ | Compensation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resp. Acidosis | ↓ | ↑ | Normal | Kidneys retain HCO₃⁻ (Slow) |
| Resp. Alkalosis | ↑ | ↓ | Normal | Kidneys excrete HCO₃⁻ (Slow) |
| Met. Acidosis | ↓ | Normal | ↓ | Lungs blow off CO₂ (Kussmaul - Fast) |
| Met. Alkalosis | ↑ | Normal | ↑ | Lungs retain CO₂ (Slow) |
2Nursing Calculation Mastery
1. The Parkland Formula (Burn Fluid Resuscitation)
Protocol: 2nd/3rd degree burns
Total Fluid (24hrs) = 4ml × Body Weight (kg) × TBSA (%)
First 8 hours
Give 50% of total calculated volume
Next 16 hours
Give remaining 50%
Example Calculation
Patient: 60kg, 30% TBSA burn
- • Total = 4 × 60 × 30 = 7,200ml
- • Action: Infuse 3,600ml in first 8 hours (450ml/hr)
2. IV Drip Rate (Drops/min)
gtts/min = (Total Volume × Drop Factor) ÷ Time in Minutes
| Drip Type | Drop Factor | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Macro Drip | 15 or 20 gtts/ml | Standard adult infusions |
| Micro Drip | 60 gtts/ml | Pediatrics / Critical Care |
Quick Calculation Tips
Exam Tip
For micro drip (60 gtts/ml), the drip rate equals ml/hr!
Exam Tip
Always calculate from time of burn injury, NOT arrival time!
Key Takeaways
- Use ROME to quickly identify acid-base imbalances
- Memorize normal values: pH 7.35-7.45, PaCO₂ 35-45, HCO₃⁻ 22-26
- Parkland Formula: 4ml × kg × TBSA% (50% in first 8 hours)
- Micro drip (60 gtts/ml) = ml/hr (quick shortcut!)