An arterial blood gas analysis is used by doctors to measure the partial levels of carbon dioxide,oxygen and the pH in a blood sample.This test can help monitor several conditions that can cause serious health complications.

1.Look at the pH number on your results.The pH level in a healthy human should be between 7.35 to 7.45.Your body is constantly striving to keep pH in balance.

2.Examine the PCO2 number on your report.This number is the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood.It is the respiratory component in acid-base balance.It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).The normal level for PCO2 is between 35 to 45 mmHg.



3.Check your blood gas report for the bicarbonate (HCO3) level.It is the renal component in the acid-base balance.The normal level for these ions is between 24 to 26 milliEquivalents Per Liter (mEq/L).

4.Determine whether there is compensation for the pH imbalance.Generally,the pulmonary and renal systems compensate for each other to return the pH to normal.The lungs will compensate for metabolic instability by changing CO2 excretion and the kidneys will compensate for the respiratory instability by altering bicarbonate retention and H+ secretion.

5.Inspect the PO2 number in your blood gas test results.This is the amount of oxygen that is dissolved in the blood.The normal PO2 level should be between 80 to 100 mmHg.If they are below limits,there is evidence of hypoxemia,therefore,no compensation is done to restore the pH balance.

6.Finally,evaluate the diagnosis of your ABG reading.The readings of the blood gas test results will help you make a diagnosis.

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