Integrating Acid-Base and Metabolic Lab Panels Across Systems in an M1 Classroom Activity

INTRODUCTION: It is important to deliver acid-base balance concepts in the context of multiple physiological systems and metabolic processes that influence acid-base homeostasis. This activity combines the interactions of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and renal systems in conjunction with basic metabolism to generate an integrated activity for first-year medical students. METHODS: We developed four concise case scenarios around various presentations of acid-base disturbance along with five sets of arterial blood gases (ABGs) and five different metabolic lab panels. M1 students were given class time to match the three different types of data in order to address how the underlying biochemistry and physiology of a scenario translated into ABG and metabolic laboratory values. RESULTS: Although not statistically significant, the students’ performance on acid-base questions was marginally higher than on standardized National Board of Medical Examiners questions on other topics covered in the same exam, and the improvement over national average scores on the same questions increased. Student evaluation of the activity was positive, with general appreciation of its application and integration of concepts. DISCUSSION: The incorporation of this activity into the M1 year was positively received and enhanced integration of content related to acid-base balance. The activity is flexible and can be adapted to most any curricular structure, with the potential to include additional content depending on the level of the learner.