Nephrology and electrolytes mnemonic

Causes of normal anion gap metabolic acidosis

The mnemonic

HARDASS

What each word stands for

  • HHyperalimentation
  • AAddison disease
  • RRenal tubular acidosis
  • DDiarrhoea
  • AAcetazolamide
  • SSpironolactone
  • SSaline infusion (large volume)

Why it matters clinically

Bicarbonate loss with chloride retention gives a hyperchloraemic acidosis with a normal anion gap.

Where it stops being reliable

Not a complete list; ureteral diversion and pancreatic fistula also cause it.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Nephrology and electrolytes mnemonic?

HARDASS. It helps you recall: Causes of normal anion gap metabolic acidosis.

What does "H" stand for?

Hyperalimentation

What does "A" stand for?

Acetazolamide

What does "R" stand for?

Renal tubular acidosis

What are all the parts of the HARDASS mnemonic?

H: Hyperalimentation; A: Addison disease; R: Renal tubular acidosis; D: Diarrhoea; A: Acetazolamide; S: Spironolactone; S: Saline infusion (large volume).

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Nephrology and electrolytes in General Medicine.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Not a complete list; ureteral diversion and pancreatic fistula also cause it.

How is this useful clinically?

Bicarbonate loss with chloride retention gives a hyperchloraemic acidosis with a normal anion gap.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a General Medicine question about Nephrology and electrolytes.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.