Definition:
Blood gas analysis, also called arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, is a test which
measures the amounts of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, as well as the
.acidity (pH) of the blood
Purpose:
An ABG analysis evaluates how effectively the lungs are delivering oxygen to the
blood and how efficiently they are eliminating carbon dioxide from it. The test also
indicates how well the lungs and kidneys are interacting to maintain normal blood pH
(acid-base balance). Blood gas studies are usually done to assess respiratory
disease and other conditions that may affect the lungs, and to manage patients
receiving
oxygen therapy (respiratory therapy). In addition, the acid-base component of the test
.provides information on kidney function
Blood gas analysis is performed on blood from an artery. It measures the partial
pressures of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, as well as oxygen content,
oxygen saturation, bicarbonate content, and blood pH
Normal results:
Normal blood gas values are as follows:
Abnormal results
Values that differ from those listed above may indicate respiratory, metabolic, or
kidney disease. These results also may be abnormal if the patient has experienced
trauma that may affect breathing (especially head and neck injuries). Disorders, such
as anemia, that affect the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, can produce an
.abnormally low oxygen content value
Principle of operation
:Principle of measurement
Potential difference (voltage) between a measuring electrode and a
reference electrode is proportional to the concentration of hydrogen
.ions in a solution
PH Electrode .1
solution. Membrane covered tip in contact with blood. (pH of this electrode is known.)
Severinghaus electrode -3
Measuring paCO2