Arterial Blood Gas Procedures and Interpretation

This module provides knowledge in the proper steps to perform an arterial blood gas test and how to interpret the results.

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Arterial blood gas tests are used to test the function of the lungs to move oxygen into the lungs and remove carbon dioxide. This process is accomplished by obtaining a blood sample from an artery and measuring the oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels. This module provides knowledge in the proper steps to perform an arterial blood gas test and how to interpret the results. Including both Learn and Test modes, the online simulator will test your ability to perform an arterial blood gas test. Practice the steps of the procedure as often as you want until you are confident.

You’ll learn

pre-procedure considerations
indications for arterial blood gas sampling
how to demonstrate the procedure for interpreting an Allen test
how to perform a blood gas procedure
much more (see Content Details for more specific information)

Introduction

Step 1 - Module introduction and expectations

Step 2 - Preparation

Step 2.1 - Equipment preparation

Step 2.2 - Patient preparation

Step 2.3 - Medical professional preparation

Step 3 - Perform arterial blood sampling

Step 3.1 - Radial artery

Step 4 - Transport arterial blood sample

Step 5 - Document the procedure

Step 6 - Interpret arterial blood sample results

Step 6.1 - Document the pH balance

Step 6.2 - Analyze the respiratory mechanism

Step 6.3 - Analyze the metabolic mechanism

Step 6.4 - Interpretation

Describe the pre-procedure considerations for arterial blood gas sampling.
Describe and demonstrate how to examine the status of a pulse before commencing a blood gas procedure.
Apply interpretation protocols to arterial blood gas sampling.
Identify and understand when and how to interpret an Allen's test.
Describe and demonstrate the procedure for interpreting an Allen's test:

positioning of the patient
cleansing of the puncture site
the angle of needle entry
the depth of needle insertion
collection of the sample
removal of the needle and application of pressure at the puncture site
placement of the sample in ice

Understand and apply Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines.
Describe and demonstrate the correct post-procedure considerations.
Define and demonstrate correct recording and reporting procedures.
Define and use related medical terminology.
Explain thePatient Privacy Rule (HIPAA), Patient Safety Act, and Patients' Bill of Rights.

The SIMTICS modules are all easy to use and web-based. This means they are available at any time as long as the learner has an internet connection. No special hardware or other equipment is required, other than a computer mouse for use in the simulations. Each of the SIMTICS modules covers one specific procedure or topic in detail. Each module contains:

an online simulation (available in Learn and Test modes)
descriptive text, which explains exactly how to perform that particular procedure including key terms and hyperlinks to references
2D images and a 3D model of applied anatomy for that particular topic
a step by step video demonstration by an expert
a quiz
a personal logbook that keeps track of all the modules the learner has studied and how long