Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
arterial blood gas
Also written as: ABG — arterial blood gas
Laboratory test measuring oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels in arterial blood.
Full Definition
An arterial blood gas (ABG) is a diagnostic test that analyzes blood drawn from an artery to assess respiratory and metabolic function. The test measures partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), pH, bicarbonate levels, and oxygen saturation. Respiratory therapists often collect ABG samples and interpret results to guide ventilator management, oxygen therapy adjustments, and assessment of acid-base balance.
Usage
Usage note: Can be abbreviated as ABG in clinical contexts; spell out in patient education materials.
In Context
- "The arterial blood gas revealed severe hypoxemia requiring immediate intervention." — Emergency department report
- "Serial arterial blood gas measurements showed gradual improvement in CO2 retention." — ICU progress note
Also known as
ABG
blood gas analysis
Contrasted with
venous blood gas
Don't confuse with
venous blood gas
capillary blood gas