What is being analysed?

Blood gas analysis involves measuring the levels of oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and pH in the blood, as well as other parameters such as bicarbonate (HCO3-) and oxygen saturation (SaO2).

What does the result mean?

The results of blood gas analysis provide insights into the respiratory and metabolic status of an individual. It indicates how well the lungs are oxygenating the blood and removing CO2, as well as the body's acid-base balance.

Why do the analysis?

Blood gas analysis is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring respiratory disorders, metabolic imbalances, and assessing the effectiveness of treatments such as oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation.

When to do the analysis?

Blood gas analysis is performed when there are symptoms of respiratory distress, such as shortness of breath, rapid breathing, or cyanosis (bluish discolouration of the skin). It is also done during critical care management, surgeries, or in emergencies.

What sample is required?

Arterial blood is usually preferred for blood gas analysis, as it provides the most accurate assessment of oxygenation and acid-base balance. However, in some cases, venous blood may be used as an alternative.

Is any type of prior preparation necessary?

No specific prior preparation is necessary for blood gas analysis. However, it's essential to ensure that the sample is collected correctly and promptly to obtain accurate results.

How is it used?

Blood gas analysis is used to:

• Assess respiratory function by measuring oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
• Evaluate acid-base balance by analysing pH and bicarbonate levels.
• Monitor patients with respiratory failure, chronic lung diseases, metabolic disorders, or during anaesthesia and critical care.
• Guide treatment decisions, such as adjusting oxygen therapy, ventilator settings, or administering medications to correct acid-base imbalances.

What are the normal values?

Normal values for arterial blood gas analysis are as follows:

What does it mean to have altered values?

Low PaO2: Indicates hypoxemia, which may result from lung diseases, breathing disorders, or inadequate oxygen supply.

High PaCO2: Indicates hypercapnia, suggesting respiratory acidosis due to hypoventilation or lung conditions impairing CO2 elimination.

Low pH: Indicates acidosis, which may be respiratory (due to CO2 retention) or metabolic (due to excess acid production or loss of bicarbonate).

High pH: Indicates alkalosis, which may be respiratory (due to excessive CO2 elimination) or metabolic (due to loss of acid or excess bicarbonate).