Why is this procedure done?
An arterial blood gas is also known as an ABG. It is often done if you have a very serious lung or heart problem. This test looks at how much oxygen and carbon dioxide is in your blood. This tells the doctor if you need extra oxygen or help with breathing. It also measures the acid or base level in your blood. This is called pH. An ABG may help the doctor decide if your lungs and kidneys are working normally. ‚
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What will the results be?
- Your doctor will get the results of the test and will talk with you. The results will help the doctor understand your illness and plan treatment.
- If the results are normal, it means your lungs are likely working in a normal way. It may also mean you are getting enough help from your oxygen or breathing machine.
- If the results are not normal, you may have a problem with your lungs. It may also mean you need to have more or less help from your oxygen or breathing machine.
What happens before the procedure?
- Tell your doctor about any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- Your doctor may check to make sure blood flow to your hand is normal.
- If you are taking extra oxygen, keep the amount at the same level for at least 20 minutes before the procedure.
- Your doctor may choose the site where the blood will be drawn from you. It may be from the inside of your wrist, upper arm, or groin.
What happens during the procedure?
- Your skin is cleaned with a special solution. This helps prevent infection.
- The doctor will put a small needle through your skin into the artery. The doctor will collect a small amount of blood from you.
- The doctor takes out the needle and puts pressure on the site. A bandage will be used to cover the site after the bleeding stops.
- You may feel a little more pain during this test than from a blood test taken from a vein.
What happens after the procedure?
Apply pressure to the site for 10 minutes. It is important to apply pressure longer when an artery test site is used. This will help stop any bleeding. You may need to apply pressure for a little longer if you are taking blood-thinner drugs. Often, this test is done while you are a patient in the hospital. If not, you may go home after this test. ‚
What care is needed at home?
- If the site is still sore, you can apply a cold compress to the puncture site. Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel over the painful part. Never put ice directly on the skin. Do not leave the ice on more than 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
- Apply pressure for another 10 minutes if you start bleeding again.
What follow-up care is needed?
The results will help your doctor understand what kind of problem you have. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- A bruise at the puncture site
- Bleeding
- Injury to the artery or less blood flow to the area. This is a rare problem.
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/blood-gases/tab/glance ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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