How to Analyze Arterial Blood Gases Results
Arterial blood gas analysis measures the acidity, amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. It is a useful test to determine if the lungs, heart and kidneys are functioning properly.
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Instructions
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Refer to the blood pH level in the test. The blood is slightly basic, and should fall between a pH level of 7.35 to 7.45. If it does not fall within that range your body must compensate in some way, which puts added stress on the respiratory and kidney system.
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Next, make sure that the partial pressure of oxygen is between 80 and 100mg/hg. A partial pressure that does not fall in this range indicates that oxygen is not moving properly from the lungs to the blood.
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Next, determine the partial pressure of carbon dioxide. This part of the test determines how much carbon dioxide is present in the blood. A range between 35 and 45mg/hg is normal and indicates a normal blood pH level. A level above 45mg/hg indicates an acidic blood level, while a level below 35mg/hg indicates a basic blood level.
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Next, determine the amount of bicarbonate. Bicarbonate indicates whether or not the blood is at the proper pH. A normal level is between 22 and 26. A level below 22 indicates an acidic blood pH level, while a level above 26 indicates a basic blood pH level
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Next, refer to the oxygen saturation. This is an indication of the amount of oxygen present in the blood, and is determined using a pulsometer. A normal range falls between 95 and 100 percent. A value that falls outside this range indicates that hemoglobin within the blood is not able to bind enough oxygen to suit the body's need.
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Tips & Warnings
A arterial blood gas test followed by a complete blood count analysis will give a more inclusive idea of overall health.
Before examination inform the doctor of any medication that you are presently taking.
Consult your physician if you have any questions or concerns about your test results.
