Arterial Blood Gas Test

The arterial blood gas test is conducted to measure the acidity/alkalinity of the blood and the level of oxygenation. Usually, the body restores any imbalance in the pH changes by itself. However, those who suffer from an overwhelming or a long term problem of oxygenation may need medical intervention.

Based on the results of this test, it is determined whether a patient should be put on a respirator or given concentrated oxygen. For those who are already receiving oxygen therapy, the doctor may ask for tests in order to monitor the progress of the therapy and measure its effectiveness. Blood gases may also be tested for those who have a trauma or injury to their head or neck. Since such injuries may affect breathing and the oxygen and carbon dioxide ratio may get disturbed.

Patients who are undergoing prolonged anesthesia for a surgery or any other major medical procedure may also need to get their blood gases tested. They usually have their blood gases monitored for a brief period immediately after the surgery. This test is also often performed on new born babies in order to uncover any respiratory problems that the baby may have. However, testing on the umbilical chord of the new born baby is only performed if the baby is experiencing breathing difficulties.

Reasons for Arterial Blood Gas Test

The test is almost always ordered when a patient is experiencing the symptoms of an imbalance in the oxygen and carbon dioxide ratio or a change in the alkalinity of the blood. A person may experience shortness of breath or the inability to breathe properly in such a case.

An imbalance of this kind can be caused by any chronic or acute condition. The blood gas tests are not able to point out the exact cause of the imbalance, but give an indication for further testing to check for metabolic or respiratory ailments. Those who have a metabolic, kidney or respiratory disorder are usually recommended to get their blood gas tested from time to time.