Blood Gases Test
(Procedures and Tests)
This article will help you learn more about the Blood Gases Test and how to prepare for it.
What is the Blood Gases Test?
The blood gases test is a blood test that requires taking a sample from an artery or a vein to measure the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. The test also measures the acid-base (pH) balance in your blood.
- When is the BloodGases Test ordered?
- The blood gases test is performed for several reasons, including:
- Acid–base imbalance, such as:
- Rapid and deep (Kussmaul) breathing.
- Vomiting and nausea.
- Heart palpitations.
- Confusion.
- Fatigue.
- Muscle twitching or cramps.
- To monitor certain lung diseases and breathing conditions, such as:COPD).
- Asthma.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Cystic fibrosis.:
- Myasthenia gravis.
- Experiencing symptoms after:
- Carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Inhalation poisoning from smoke or harmful chemicals.
Recent injury to the head or neck.
Patients receiving oxygen therapy in the hospital
