What is one potential complication of using sodium bicarbonate in poisoning management?

Sodium bicarbonate is often considered in the management of certain types of poisoning, particularly when aiming to correct acidosis. However, one significant potential complication associated with its use is metabolic alkalosis.

When sodium bicarbonate is administered, it increases the bicarbonate level in the blood, leading to an elevation of the blood pH. If not carefully monitored, this can shift the acid-base balance towards alkalosis. This condition can result in various physiological disturbances such as hypokalemia, decreased ionized calcium, and impaired oxygen delivery to tissues.

Moreover, the risk of developing metabolic alkalosis increases with excessive or rapid administration of sodium bicarbonate, especially in patients who may have compromised renal function or who are receiving other interventions that can impact acid-base balance. Thus, understanding and monitoring for this complication is crucial in the management of patients receiving sodium bicarbonate in the context of poisoning.