Definition: Arterial blood gases (ABGs) are diagnostic tests

performed on blood taken from an artery which contains oxygen and

carbon dioxide.

What is ABG?

An arterial blood gas (ABG) is a type of blood test which measures the
pH or acidity of the blood, as well as gases, such as oxygen and carbon
dioxide. The test is usually performed on people if they have breathing
problems, such as emphysema and asthma. It helps doctors evaluate
whether the lungs are functioning efficiently

When we inhale we breathe in oxygen, which is transported from the

lungs into the bloodstream. During exhalation, carbon dioxide is
released and also travels through the blood. Two of the most
important factors an ABG measures is the level of both the carbon
dioxide and the oxygen level in the blood.

The level of carbon dioxide affects the pH of the blood, which is why
it’s considered a critical factor measured by an arterial blood gas.
Excess carbon dioxide makes the pH lower and causes a condition
known as respiratory acidosis. This can lead to various symptoms,
including confusion, headaches, coma and possibly death.

The Purpose of the ABG

ABGs measure how well the lungs can provide adequate oxygen to the
body and subsequently remove carbon dioxide. Analysis of blood
gases helps evaluate a person's respiratory and metabolic status. ABGs
also measure blood pH and the integrity of the body's acid-base
balance.