ABG Analysis and its Interpretation

Abstract

Background: Blood consist of two components, the fluid part of blood or plasma that accounts for about 55% of blood and the formed elements of blood or blood cells that constitutes about 45% of the total volume of blood. An arterial blood gas analysis (ABGA) is a blood test that is performed using blood from an artery. Arterial Blood Gas analysis is a frequently used tool for assessing arterial blood oxygenation. Physicians, registered nurses, and respiratory therapists are responsible for the accurate interpretation of ABG data as part of the evaluation and management of acutely and critically ill patients. Aim: The study was designed to evaluate the knowledge of ABG analysis among Nursing officers in Emergency care units. Subjects and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted among Nursing officers in selected Hospital at Puducherry. Sample size was 50, selected through purposive sampling. The approach used for the study was Quantitative approach and design was descrip- tive design. Researcher made questionnaire contained four sections i.e., demographic variables, questions related to normal values of ABG Analysis, Items on Technique of ABG sampling, and items on interpretation of ABG Results respectively. Results: The major findings of the study,2% had inadequate knowledge, 36% had moderate knowledge and 62% had adequate knowledge on ABG Analysis and its Interpretation. Conclusion: The study revealed that most of the Nursing officers had Adequate knowledge regarding ABG Analysis. Hence the results of the study proves that the working experience in critical care units will improve the knowledge.