Arterial Blood Gases prep Flashcards
Which 2 ABG values should move together in the same direction?
Base excess and HCO3-
a pH of 7.51 is normal for a healthy patient?
false
normal pH should be between 7.35 and 7.45
indications for ABG
- suspected sepsis (lactate)
- acutely unwell patients
- cyanosis
- exacerbation of hypercapnnia
- diabetic ketoacidosis
2 key vessels you need to identify before performing an ABG
radial and ulnar artery
raise in hydrogen ions in conjunction with raised CO2 will result in…
and if bicarb is normal
lower pH
respiratory acidosis
prime positioning for ABG
wrist supinated and slightl dorsi-flexed
Contraindications for ABG
DO NOT PERFORM IF
- Allens test is negative
- patient has arteriovenous fistula/shunt
- theres underlying skeletal trauma
- there is infection at puncture site
Use caution when performing an ABG on a patient if :
- patient on anticoagulation therapy
- history of clotting or bleeding disorder
- they have known peripheral vascular disease
Use caution when performing an ABG on a patient if :
- patient on anticoagulation therapy
- history of clotting or bleeding disorder
- they have known peripheral vascular disease
complications
- damage to radial artery
- thrombus, air embolism
- faint
- arteriospas,
collateral circulation should be assessed
to ensure adequate perfusion
What test is performed to check collateral circulation?
- modified Allen’s test
modified allen’s test
- assess the adequacy of the collateral circulation of the radial artery by the ulnar artery
- if more than 10 seconds the test is negative
Blood gas syringe contains what?
- usually heparinated
- to prevent coagulation
Whats the minimum fill in a blood gas syringe?
- atleast 1 ml
