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What
happens during the test?
A small amount (about 0.5ml) of blood will be drawn from an artery
in the arm and analyzed for oxygen content, CO2 content,
and acid/base balance. After the needle is withdrawn, the puncture
site is held firmly until bleeding has stopped. A bandage may then
be applied.
Will it hurt?
A needle stick
is never a comfortable procedure, however, the needle is small and
the blood sample needed is small.
What do I do to
prepare?
Nothing unusual
unless your physician gives you specific instructions. If you wear
oxygen at home, your physician order will tell you if you should
wear the oxygen for the ABG.
How
long will it take?
15 to 20 minutes
What is the
reason for the test?
Your physician
will use this information to assess how well your lungs and heart
are working. The results from this test help with the diagnosis of
certain lung diseases and determines whether your oxygen levels are
adequate.
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