Arterial Blood Gas

ABGs measure oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. They determine how well your lungs are getting oxygen into your blood and carbon dioxide out of your blood. This is somewhat more painful than an ordinary blood test.

Arterial blood gas is a blood sample test ordered by your physician to evaluate measurements of oxygen level, carbon dioxide (effectiveness of respiration), and several other parameters. Generally, it is indicated when your physician needs to evaluate the effectiveness of your breathing.

1. This sample is drawn at the pulse site at the wrist (radial artery) or on top of your elbow (brachial artery).
2. Pressure will be held at the site for several minutes to assure that there is no bleeding