ABG Sampling 🌬️

🧾 Overview

  • Indications: respiratory failure, acid-base monitoring, oxygenation assessment, pre-respiratory support.
  • Contraindications: local infection, distorted anatomy, poor collateral circulation, coagulopathy.

🧰 Equipment Checklist

  • ABG syringe x2 (pre-heparinised)
  • Gloves and apron
  • Alcohol swab
  • Gauze and tape
  • Sharps bin
  • Ice pack or bio bag (if needed)
  • Patient label or ID sticker

🧑‍⚕️ Preparation

  • Explain procedure, obtain consent
  • Wash hands, wear gloves
  • Confirm patient identity
  • Position wrist extended (palm up)
  • Perform Allen’s test for collateral circulation

💉 Procedure

  • Palpate radial artery
  • Clean with alcohol swab and allow to dry
  • Insert needle at 30–45° angle, bevel up
  • Allow syringe to fill passively - at least 1 mL
  • Withdraw needle, apply pressure to site for ≥5 min

✅ Aftercare

  • Label syringe with patient details
  • Expel air bubbles, cap the syringe
  • Dispose of sharps safely
  • Document the procedure and patient tolerance

🧪 Processing

  • Analyse immediately if possible
  • Use ice if delay >10 minutes
  • Record FiO₂ and time taken
  • Include relevant clinical details if sending to lab

ABG Interpretation Tool

Analyze arterial blood gas values

Advanced Delta Gap Analysis

Detects mixed acid-base disorders (HAGMA only)

ABG Interpretation

Please enter valid ABG values.