Acid–base balance: the basics
1.4 Acid–base balance The basics The terms acidity and alkalinity simply refer to the concentration of free hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution. H+ concentration can be expressed directly in…
Making ABG interpretation easy
1.9 Making ABG interpretation easy The golden rule for making ABG interpretation easy is to assess pulmonary gas exchange and acid base status independently. Assessing pulmonary gas exchange • Using…
Pulmonary gas exchange: the basics
1.2 Pulmonary gas exchange The basics Our cells use oxygen (O2) to generate energy and produce carbon dioxide (CO2) as waste. Blood supplies cells with the O2 they need and…
Disorders of gas exchange
1.3 Disorders of gas exchange Hypoxia, hypoxaemia and impaired oxygenation The above terms are often used interchangeably but mean different things. Hypoxia refers to any state in which tissues receive…
ABG sampling technique
1.6 ABG sampling technique Before you can interpret an ABG you must, of course, obtain a sample of arterial blood. The following steps should be used as a guide but…
Disorders of acid–base balance
1.5 Disorders of acid–base balance Metabolic acidosis A metabolic acidosis is any process, other than a rise in PaCO2, that acts to lower blood pH. It may occur through accumulation…
Common ABG values
1.8 Common ABG values The following parameters are commonly found on ABG reports and are provided for reference (normal ranges in brackets): H+ (35–45 nmol/L) < 35 = alkalaemia, >45…
When and why is an ABG required?
1.7 When and why is an ABG required? 1 To establish a diagnosis The ABG is integral to the diagnosis of respiratory failure and primary hyperventilation. It also identifies the…
