Understanding arterial blood gases

This open learning zone article examines acid-base balance and the interpretation of arterial blood gases (ABG). The article begins with a brief revision of related physiology which leads on to the description of the primary disorders of acid-base balance. The normal ranges and the significance of abnormal ABG results are explored. The article concludes by providing an easy to follow 4 step guide to ABG interpretation with practice examples presented in the CPD task section.