Abstract
Interpretation of Arterial blood gases is an essence of critical care. It helps for the assessment of clinical oxygenation, ventilation and acid-base status in critically ill patients. The four closely inter-related physiological parameters pH, PCO2, HCO3 and PO2 helps to diagnose, monitor and manage the ICU patients. Its correct interpretation and application necessitates the knowledge of basic applied physiology in relation to these parameters. The present article is an attempt for the simplified approach for the bedside interpretation of ABG.
Highlights
The term arterial blood gas (“ABG” or blood gas, with “arterial” left unstated) refers to a specific set of tests performed on arterial blood sample
A background in respiratory physiology is recommended, but not required to understand this approach
A normal PaO2 is dependent on the atmospheric pressure, temperature, inspired O2 concentration (FiO2), and the patient's age
Summary
The term arterial blood gas (“ABG” or blood gas, with “arterial” left unstated) refers to a specific set of tests performed on arterial blood sample. Interpretation Arterial blood gases are an important diagnostic tool for the evaluation of Oxygenation, Ventilation and acid base status. The terms acidosis and alkalosis refer to the processes that alter the acid-base status. Respiratory Metabolic processes are those that primarily alter the HCO3 concentration in the blood.
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