Clinical Use

  • Indications

    Assessing respiratory & acid base status, testing of carboxy- and methaemoglobin

  • Contraindications

    Coagulopathy, inadequate collateral circulation

Equipment & Preparation

  • Gloves

  • Alcohol swabs

  • 1% Lignocaine

    If appropriate

  • Blood Gas Syringe

    Heparinised syringe with needle

  • Cap for Blood Gas Syringe

  • Dressing

    Gauze and tape

  • Exit Strategy

    Sharps container

  • Blood Tubes for Samples

  • Documentation

    Test request form, patient labels

Identifying an Artery

How To Perform

  • Identify that this is the correct patient

  • Explain the procedure and ask for patient's consent

  • Positioning

    Raise the bed to waist level

  • Wash hands and don gloves

  • Prepare the Site

    Decontaminate with alcohol swab, allow to air dry

  • Inject 1% lignocaine if appropriate

  • Identify the Artery

    Palpate for a pulse proximal to desired collection site

  • Prepare the patient for a ‘very sharp scratch'

  • Insert the Needle

    Bevel up, ~45 degrees from skin, until flashback is seen

  • Collect Blood

    Allow the syringe to self-fill

  • Remove the Needle

    Apply gentle pressure to the area using gauze or cotton ball for at least five minutes

  • Prepare the Sample

    Remove the needle, cap the syringe, gently invert

  • Clean Up

    Dispose of sharps and other waste

  • Remove gloves and wash hands

  • Processing

    Label the syringe and send to the lab

Complications