Dear Nurses

Saturday, September 04, 2010

UNDERSTANDING AN ARTERIAL BLOOD GAS

Updated 8/25


Scenario: Ron has just arrived in the Emergency Room
with complaints of shortness of breath. The nurse does
an assessment. The doctor examines Ron. He orders tests,
 which include an ABG and an EKG.

What is an ABG?
An ABG ( Arterial blood gas) is a blood test which is done
to evaluate a patient's oxygenation, when respiratory problems
 exist. A heparinized syringe is used to draw blood from an
artery, in order to do this test (SEE ABOVE).

The results of the ABG will give insight into a patient's
oxygen levels
 and other significant information. The results
of the ABG will help the doctor to decide the course of 
treatment. Depending on the severity, mechanical 
ventilation may be ordered by the doctor.

Also enjoy the video: Diagnostics Part 1


Above, two nurses are transporting a patient to the ER.
The nurse on the right has been using an AMBU bag to
 administer oxygen.There is no improvement in the
oxygen saturation.
Where does critical thinking come in?



0 Comments:

Post a Comment

<< Home