Arterial blood gases: a guide to interpretation
This course provides a practical, structured approach to interpreting arterial blood gases in clinical settings. It covers the underlying physiology of acid-base balance, a stepwise method for analysing ABG results, and the identification of common respiratory and metabolic disorders. Designed to support confident clinical decision-making, the course emphasises real-world application, including recognition of compensation, mixed disorders, and oxygenation abnormalities.
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Learning Outcomes
What you'll learn
- Understand the physiological principles underlying acid-base balance
- Identify the key parameters measured in arterial blood gas analysis
- Apply a structured, stepwise approach to interpreting ABG results
- Differentiate between respiratory and metabolic acid-base disorders
- Interpret anion gap and recognise its clinical significance
- Assess compensatory mechanisms and identify mixed disorders
- Recognise common causes of acid-base imbalances in clinical practice
- Evaluate oxygenation status using ABG parameters including the A–a gradient
- Apply ABG interpretation to support clinical decision-making
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Learning Outcomes
What you'll learn
- Understand the physiological principles underlying acid-base balance
- Identify the key parameters measured in arterial blood gas analysis
- Apply a structured, stepwise approach to interpreting ABG results
- Differentiate between respiratory and metabolic acid-base disorders
- Interpret anion gap and recognise its clinical significance
- Assess compensatory mechanisms and identify mixed disorders
- Recognise common causes of acid-base imbalances in clinical practice
- Evaluate oxygenation status using ABG parameters including the A–a gradient
- Apply ABG interpretation to support clinical decision-making
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Training Overview
- ABG Fundamentals – Measurement, Sampling and Physiology
- Stepwise Interpretation of ABG Results
- Common Acid–Base Disorders and Clinical Causes
- Summary
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Frequently asked questions
An ABG test measures blood pH, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and bicarbonate levels to assess acid-base balance, ventilation, and oxygenation in patients.
ABGs are used in respiratory distress, suspected acid-base imbalance, critical illness, or to guide oxygen and ventilation therapy.
The normal blood pH range is 7.35 to 7.45. Values below indicate acidaemia, while values above indicate alkalaemia.
pCO₂ reflects how effectively the lungs are removing carbon dioxide and indicates the respiratory component of acid-base balance.