arterial blood gas
Laboratory test measuring blood oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels from arterial sample.
Full Definition
Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is a diagnostic test that measures the partial pressures of oxygen (PaO2) and carbon dioxide (PaCO2), pH, bicarbonate (HCO3-), and oxygen saturation in arterial blood. In emergency cardiology, ABG analysis is crucial for assessing respiratory and metabolic status in critically ill cardiac patients, particularly those with pulmonary edema, cardiogenic shock, or cardiac arrest. The test helps guide mechanical ventilation, evaluate acid-base disorders, and monitor response to therapy. Normal values include pH 7.35-7.45, PaCO2 35-45 mmHg, PaO2 80-100 mmHg, and HCO3- 22-26 mEq/L. ABG results inform decisions about ventilator management, bicarbonate therapy, and overall hemodynamic support.
Usage
Usage note: ABG is widely accepted abbreviation; specify arterial vs. venous when ambiguous.
In Context
- "Arterial blood gas revealed severe metabolic acidosis with a pH of 7.15." — Emergency department laboratory report
- "Serial ABGs were obtained to monitor ventilatory status during targeted temperature management." — ICU progress note