New South Wales Ambulance Pharmacology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Ambulance Pharmacology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Sodium bicarbonate is primarily used in medical settings to treat conditions that result in acidosis, which is an increase in acidity in the body. When sodium bicarbonate is administered, it dissociates into sodium and bicarbonate ions. The bicarbonate ions act as a buffer, neutralizing excess hydrogen ions in the blood and thereby raising the pH. This process results in an increase in alkalinity of the blood, effectively shifting the pH toward a more alkaline state.

The increase in pH is significant, especially in cases of metabolic acidosis or certain drug overdoses, as it helps restore normal physiological balance. By promoting an alkaline environment, sodium bicarbonate contributes to the correction of acid-base imbalances, making it a vital agent in emergency medicine.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the action of sodium bicarbonate. An acidic pH increase would imply a worsening of acidosis, which is contrary to the intended effect of sodium bicarbonate. Neutral pH stabilization suggests no change, but the key action of bicarbonate is to actively raise the pH rather than simply maintain a neutral state. Lastly, while it may impact acid-base equilibrium, the term does not specifically indicate the direction or extent of pH change that is