1. What happens during an arterial blood gas test?
The oxygen and carbon dioxide level in your blood is measured in an arterial blood gas test. This blood test measures the acidity, or pH, and the oxygen as well as carbon dioxide level from an artery. This helps check the patient's lung function.
2. How long is the procedure for arterial blood gas test?
The arterial blood gas test involves drawing your blood sample that might take a few seconds. A blood sample can be taken from your wrist, the inside of your arm above the elbow, or from an artery in your groin. The results of the test are usually available in 15 minutes.
3. Why is the arterial blood gas test performed?
An arterial blood gas test is performed to see how well your lungs are functioning and to determine the effectiveness of repiratory therapies, such as the use of a ventilator, BiPAP, or CPAP machines. This test is used for checking the lungs' ability to utilize oxygen and remove carbon dioxide.
4. Is there any side effect associated with arterial blood gas test?
The possible side effects associated with arterial blood gas test are an infection at the puncture area, feeling faint, bruising or bleeding at the puncture site, and blood accumulating under the skin. If you experience prolonged or unexpected side effects, you need to inform your doctor.
5. Is arterial blood gas test painful?
Usually, the arterial blood gas test is not painful. You will just feel a slight prick when the needle is inserted to draw blood. Arteries have more smooth muscle layers than veins. It is possible that some people may find an arterial blood gas test a little more painful than a test that involves drawing a blood sample from a vein.