Winters' formula

Winters' formula,[1] named for Dr. R.W. Winters,[2] is a formula used to evaluate respiratory compensation when analyzing acid–base disorders and a metabolic acidosis is present.[3][4] It can be given as

${\displaystyle P_{CO_{2}}=(1.5\times HCO_{3}^{-})+8\pm 2}$,

where HCO3⁻ is given in units of mEq/L and pCO₂ will be in units of mmHg.

Winters' formula gives an expected value for the patient's P_CO2; the patient's actual (measured) P_CO2 is then compared to this:

• If the two values correspond, respiratory compensation is considered to be adequate.
• If the measured P_CO2 is higher than the calculated value, there is also a secondary respiratory acidosis or mixed acid base disorder.
• If the measured P_CO2 is lower than the calculated value, there is also a secondary respiratory alkalosis or mixed acid base disorder.

References

1. Albert MS, Dell RB, Winters RW (February 1967). "Quantitative displacement of acid-base equilibrium in metabolic acidosis". Annals of Internal Medicine. 66 (2): 312–22. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-66-2-312. PMID 6016545.
2. Asch MJ, Dell RB, Williams GS, Cohen M, Winters RW (April 1969). "Time course for development of respiratory compensation in metabolic acidosis". The Journal of Laboratory and Clinical Medicine. 73 (4): 610–5. PMID 5775132.
3. "Case 1: Acid Base Tutorial, University of Connecticut Health Center". Retrieved 2009-05-09.
4. "Acid-Base Disorders: Acid-Base Regulation and Disorders". Merck Manual Professional. Retrieved 2009-05-09.