Blood gas analysis & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is a blood gas analyzer?

Blood gas analysis (AGD) can be used to measure the pH and levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood from the arteries. This test can see the ability of the lungs to deliver oxygen into the blood and remove carbon dioxide from the blood. In this test, blood is drawn from an artery or artery. Some other blood tests use a blood sample from a vein, after which the blood has passed through the tissues where oxygen is used and carbon dioxide is produced.

When should I have a blood gas analysis?

Oxygen levels and respiratory rates can indicate how oxidized the blood is, but blood gas analysis can provide a more precise measurement.

Your blood's pH balance and oxygen and carbon dioxide levels can indicate how your lungs and kidneys function. Identifying imbalances in pH and blood gases can provide an early warning of how your body is coping with disease.

The doctor will do a blood gas analysis if the doctor suspects you have conditions such as:

• lung disease
• Kidney illness
• metabolic disease
• injuries to the head and neck that affect breathing

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before undergoing a blood gas analysis?

The results of blood gas analysis (AGD) alone do not provide enough information to diagnose disease. For example, AGD cannot determine whether low levels are caused by the lungs or the heart. The results of the blood gas analysis are used in conjunction with the results of other examinations and tests.

The AGD test is generally performed on patients who have suffered severe injuries or illnesses. This test can measure how well the lungs and kidneys are working and how well the body is using energy.

The AGD test is most effective when the respiratory rate is increasing or decreasing or when the patient has high blood sugar (glucose) levels, severe infection or heart failure.

If several blood samples are needed, a thin tube (arterial catheter) can be placed in the artery. Blood can be drawn when needed.

Process

What should I do before undergoing a blood gas analysis?

Tell your doctor if you:

• have had bleeding problems or are taking blood thinners such as aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin)
• is taking drugs
• allergies to drugs, such as anesthetics

If you are on oxygen therapy, the oxygen should be stopped 20 minutes before the blood test. This condition is called the "room air" test. However, if you are unable to breathe, there is no need for oxygen to be stopped. Consult with your doctor about any particular concerns about the test, the risks, how the test will be performed, or the results of the test.

How is the process of analyzing blood gases?

This test requires a 2 ml blood sample. Blood can be drawn from an artery in the wrist, arm, or groin. Your medical provider will apply alcohol or an antiseptic to the skin, then draw blood using a syringe. The blood sample will be analyzed using a portable machine or in a laboratory. To get the best results, the test should be analyzed immediately within 10 minutes of drawing the blood.

What should I do after undergoing a blood gas analysis?

Although problems are rare, be careful with an arm or thigh that has had blood drawn. Avoid lifting items for 24 hours after drawing blood from the arteries. Usually, the test results are immediately known.

Explanation of the Test Results

What do my test results mean?

Normal

The normal scores listed on this list (called range references should only serve as a guide. These ranges vary from laboratory to laboratory, and your laboratory may have different normal scores. Your laboratory report will usually list what range they use. Your doctor it will also check your test results based on your health condition and other factors.This means that if your test results fall within the abnormal range in this guide, it could be in your laboratory or for your condition the score falls into the normal range.

Ablood gas analysis (at sea level and air breathing space)

Partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2):	More than 80 mm Hg (more than 10.6 kPa)
Partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2):	35–45 mm Hg (4.6–5.9 kPa)
pH:	7.35–7.45
Bicarbonate (HCO3):	22–26 mEq / L (22–26 mmol / L)
Oxygen content (O2CT):	15–22 mL per 100 mL of blood (6.6–9.7 mmol / L)
Oxygen saturation (O2Sat):	95%–100% (0.95–1.00)

The fraction of inhaled oxygen (FiO2) is also included in the report. This is useful if you are on oxygen therapy from a tank or ventilator.

Several conditions can affect blood gas levels. The doctor will consult with you about abnormal results related to the symptoms you are experiencing.