Course 108 Unit 1- Arterial Sampling Flashcards
1
Q
What is the purpose for arterial blood gases?
A
Test used to determine lung function
2
Q
What is the primary function of the lungs?
A
The primary function of the lungs is to exchange gas
3
Q
What does the ABG evaluate?
A
The ABG evaluates adequacy of oxygen in the blood and adequacy of carbon dioxide elimination from the blood
4
Q
What are indications for Arterial Blood Gases?
A
- Evaluate adequacy of ventilation (PaCO2), oxygenation (PaO2), and pH (acid-base)
- Determine response to therapeutic intervention (supplemental O2, mechanical ventilation, and diagnostic evaluation)
- Monitor severity and progression of a disease process
5
Q
What are contraindications for ABG’s?
A
- Negative Modified Allen’s Test (use other arm)
- Arteriovenous shunt (ex dialysis patient) (use another arm and/or site)
- Improperly functioning blood gas analyzer
- Specimen that has not been properly anticoagulated/ coagulated
- Specimen containing visible air bubbles
- Incomplete requisition that precludes adequate interpretation and documentation of results
- Inadequately labeled specimen
6
Q
What are the hazards of ABG punctures/needles?
A
- Infection of technician (needle stick to self)
- Inappropriate medical treatment (wrong patient diagnosis)
- Vessel spasm (constriction of blood flow)
- Hematoma (localized bleeding)
- Hemorrhage (internal bleeding)
- Vasovagal reaction (vagus nerve response-syncope)
- Laceration of the artery
- Loss of limb
7
Q
What is the equipment and supplies for ABG’s?
A
3 to 5 cc pre-heparinized syringe (glass which is maintains stable results or plastic which is gas permeable; values can change if not run in 30 minutes)
