Interpreting and using the arterial blood gas analysis

Using ABGs to optimize mechanical ventilation: three case studies illustrate how arterial blood gas analyses can guide appropriate ventilator strategy

This article focuses on translating arterial blood gas information into clinical benefits, with 3 case scenarios that focus on using arterial blood gases to manage mechanical ventilation.

Arterial Blood Gases

Arterial blood gases (ABG) results reflect underlying pathology and interpretation of the results are often compounded by ongoing disease processes and clinical interventions. While ABG specimens should be analysed immediately for optimal results the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) has recommended a window of 30 minutes at room temperature from blood collection to ABG analysis. A fresh and simple approach to interpreting ABG is provided.