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Blood gases test
 
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Blood gases

Alternative names:

arterial blood gas analysis

Normal values:

Values at sea level:

  • partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) - 75 to 100 mm Hg
  • partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) - 35 to 45 mm Hg
  • pH - 7.35 to 7.45
  • oxygen saturation (SaO2) - 94% to 100%
  • bicarbonate - (HCO3) - 22 to 26 mEq/liter

Note: mEq/liter = milliequivalents per liter; mm Hg = millimeters of mercury

At altitudes of 3,000 feet and above, the values for oxygen are lower.

What abnormal results mean:

Abnormal results may indicate respiratory, metabolic, or renal diseases. Results may also be abnormal in trauma, particularly with head or neck injuries that may affect breathing.


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