Arterial blood gas analysis is designed to measure the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, as well as the acid-base (pH) balance. Arterial blood gas analysis can assist healthcare professionals to evaluate respiration, circulation and metabolic processes in deteriorating patients. Arterial blood gas analysis is usually undertaken by a trained healthcare professional where patients are acutely unwell or deteriorating.

• Nurses should be aware of the normal arterial blood gas ranges, as well as those that may have altered as part of a patient’s long-term condition, to enable them to assess any abnormalities.

• A three-stage approach to the interpretation of arterial blood gas results is required: identify any alterations in the pH; identify the possible cause of these alterations; and assess whether any compensatory mechanisms are occurring within the body.

• Nurses should refer to the patient’s clinical presentation, history, and other signs and symptoms to ensure they consider the overall clinical context when interpreting arterial blood gas results.

Reflective activity

‘How to’ articles can help to update your practice and ensure it remains evidence based. Apply this article to your practice. Reflect on and write a short account of:

• How this article might enhance your practice when undertaking a holistic assessment of a deteriorating patient.

• How you could use this information to educate nursing students or your colleagues on the appropriate technique and evidence base for interpreting arterial blood gas results.