Blood gases

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Blood gases test

Overview

Risks

Results

Blood gases

Alternative Names:

Arterial blood gas analysis; ABG

Normal Values:

Values at sea level:

Partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) - 75 - 100 mm Hg
Partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) - 35 - 45 mm Hg
A pH of 7.35 - 7.45
Oxygen saturation (SaO2) - 94 - 100%
Bicarbonate - (HCO3) - 22 - 26 mEq/liter

Note: mEq/liter = milliequivalents per liter; mm Hg = millimeters of mercury

At altitudes of 3,000 feet and above, the values for oxygen are lower.

What abnormal results mean:

Abnormal results may indicate respiratory, metabolic, or renal diseases. The results may also be abnormal in trauma, particularly with head or neck injuries that may affect breathing.

Review Date: 2/1/2005
Reviewed By: Allen J. Blaivas, D.O., Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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