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Arterial Blood Gases
The arterial blood gas is useful for assessing a patient's oxygenation, and identify acid-base disorders. This section outlines an approach to interpreting ABGs.
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Clinical Use
Equipment & Preparation
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