This overview is a sample of the type of information available to you at Griffin Hospital's Community Health Resource Center. It is not intended to replace your physician's instructions in the management of your health problems, but to better inform you about a particular illness and alert you to the availability of other materials. If you have a question about any piece of information presented in theses fact sheets, please call your physician, or stop by the Community Health Resource Center at your convenience.

ARTERIAL BLOOD GAS (ABGs)

An arterial blood gas (ABG) is different from a usual blood test because the blood is drawn from an artery rather than from a vein. This test measures the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, as well as the acidity (pH) of the blood shortly after it has left the heart. ABGs are used to diagnose heart or lung problems that can decrease the amount of oxygen that is carried in the bloodstream.

Having blood drawn from an artery is usually more painful than having it drawn from a vein because the arteries are deeper and can be more difficult to find. The doctor or medical center staff member who is drawing the blood will first feel for a pulse in an easily accessible artery. The radial artery on the inside of the wrist is the most common site, although the brachial artery on the inside of the elbow and the femoral artery in the groin are sometimes used.

After the artery has been located, the skin will be cleaned with alcohol or iodine. A hollow needle will then be inserted into the artery and the blood sample will be drawn into a syringe. The needle will then be withdrawn and pressure will be applied to the area for at least five minutes to prevent bleeding and to assure that the arm or leg has good blood flow.

The blood sample is then packed in ice and sent to the lab immediately, to ensure the accuracy of the results. Your temperature may be taken and recorded before the blood is sent since body temperature can affect the blood gas results.

The blood is tested immediately in the lab and the results are usually available in a few minutes.

Please note that this information is intended to give you a general overview of the topic. It is not intended to replace advice or instruction of a health professional. We recommend that you consult your physician, nurse, or qualified health professional regarding the information in this publication. © 1994 Planetree, Inc. Reproduction of this material in any form is limited to license agreement.

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