Indications for blood gas testing

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Arterial blood gas analysis includes measurement of pH, partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide in arterial blood. The test results are used to assess the alkaline-acid balance in the blood and the gas exchange capacity of the lungs.

1. What is a blood gas test?

The arterial blood gas test is effective in measuring the oxygen and C02 levels in the blood in the arteries, to see if the ability to bring O2 into the blood and eliminate C02 is normal. The blood sample used for the test must be taken from an artery.
Normally, patients will be assigned to do a blood gas test when there are symptoms of acid imbalance, progressing in a bad direction, leading to shortness of breath or shortness of breath.
Blood gas testing is also sometimes done at the same time as electrolyte balance tests, blood sugar tests, kidney function tests ... to help the doctor get an accurate diagnosis of the condition. that the patient is experiencing.
The indicators that the blood gas test brings include: The direct index is PO2, Pco2, PH; HCO3, BB, BE, Beecf, CO2T, AaDPO2 calculation index and Qs/QT,VD/VT mathematical indexes.
Blood gases are often a sign of abnormalities associated with acidosis. These can occur in cases where the lungs are not functioning well or due to acidosis from metabolic causes, tissue lack of oxygen. If an arterial blood gas disorder is diagnosed, the patient will be treated, the regimen will depend on the cause of the disorder.

2. Indications of arterial blood gas test

The arterial blood gas test is indicated in the following cases:
The patient has symptoms of oxygen/carbon dioxide, PH imbalance leading to vomiting, vomiting, shortness of breath, shortness of breath; Patients with respiratory problems, metabolic problems, kidney disease or experiencing respiratory failure; Patients breathing oxygen may also be ordered to do blood gas testing for the purpose of monitoring treatment results; People with head and neck injuries or injuries that can affect breathing may also be ordered to do blood gas tests; Patients undergoing prolonged coma or in need of heart or brain surgery; For children, performing a blood gas measurement can be helpful in detecting breathing-related problems; Used when it is necessary to evaluate respiratory function before surgery on the thoracic or upper abdomen; Used in resuscitation and other critical conditions to monitor the oxygen supply to tissues. Arterial blood gas testing is contraindicated in patients with arterial grafts, aneurysms, burns, local infections, uncorrected coagulopathy, or uncontrolled paroxysmal hypertension.

3. Read arterial blood gas test results

Reference parameters of arterial blood gas test include:
PH: 735-7.45; Po2: 80-105mmHg; Pco2: 35-45mmHg; Tc02: 22-28mmHg; Hco3: 22-26 mmHg. If the arterial blood gas results are outside the reference value, the body may have symptoms such as not getting enough oxygen, not removing enough carbon dioxide, or there is a problem related to the function of the blood vessels. kidney. The doctor will base on the specific condition of the patient to decide on the appropriate treatment method.
Side effects that patients may experience when performing a blood gas test include: Pain at the blood collection site, appearance of a local hematoma, possibly spreading aneurysm, hyperalgesia sensations, disturbances in sympathetic reflexes, vasospasm or uncontrolled bleeding. Depending on the situation encountered, the patient can notify the doctor for timely treatment.

4. Attention when testing arterial blood gases?

Before taking the arterial blood gas test, the patient must inform the doctor if there are signs of bleeding or taking anticoagulants (aspirin, warfarin...). Also, provide information if you are allergic to certain medications.
For patients on oxygen therapy, the doctor will turn off the oxygen within 20 minutes before the arterial blood test.
In addition, patients can also talk to their doctor about test-related concerns such as risks or what the results mean. After the test, you should pay attention to the blood collection site, and do not carry or carry heavy objects within 24 hours.
If you want to get accurate results, you need to go to a reputable hospital with modern equipment to conduct arterial blood gas testing. Currently, the Department of Hematology (Blood Complete Blood Test) - Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the leading prestigious addresses in the country, trusted by a large number of patients for medical examination and treatment. . Thanks to the use of modern machines and equipment to check and analyze blood, it has provided accurate information on red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin,... Overall assessment of the health status of the person being tested, early detection of the disease and suggestions for timely treatment. In particular, with a space designed according to 5-star hotel standards, Vinmec guarantees to bring patients the most comfort, friendliness and peace of mind when visiting and receiving treatment at the hospital.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.