ABG

Question 1

definition of ABG

Answer 1

test of the components of arterial blood

Question 2

indications for ABG

Answer 2

see if acidosis or alkalosis

any unexpected deterioration in an ill pt

anyone with acute exacerbation of a chronic chest infection

anyone with impaired consciousness or impaired resp effort

signs of CO2 retention eg bounding pulse, drowsy, flapping tremor, headache

cyanosis, confusion, visual hallucinations - signs of low ox, SaO2 is an alternative

to validate measurements from transcutaneous pulse ox

Question 3

complications of ABG

Answer 3

arteriospasms

haematoma

haemorrhage

distal ischemia - allen’s test

infection

numbness