Laboratory measurement of the pH level and the oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations in arterial blood. Determination of these parameters is important in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases (e.g., emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, polycythemia).
A laboratory study measuring the oxygen and carbon dioxide in a sample obtained from an arterial blood sample.
Literally, any of the gases present in blood; operationally and clinically, they include the determination of levels of pH, oxygen (02), and carbon dioxide (C02) in the blood. ABGs are important in the diagnosis and treatment of disturbances of acid-base balance, pulmonary disease, electrolyte balance, and oxygen delivery. Values of the gases themselves are usually expressed as the partial pressure of carbon dioxide or oxygen, although derived values are reported in other units. Several other blood chemistry values are important in managing acid-base disturbances, including the levels of the bicarbonate ion (HC03), blood pH, sodium, potassium, and chloride.