This page provides a structure as to how the results of an ABG may be presented to other clinicians. A clear, well explained presentation can impress tutors and show your confidence in the subject.

Presenting ABG results

Presentation structure

1. State that this is an ABG result
2. Taken on [time and date]
3. From [patient identifier] i.e. 74-year-old John Smith
4. Any relevant history/examination findings/previous ABGs i.e. known COPD
5. State oxygenation status and if any supplemental oxygen was used i.e. Type 2 respiratory failure with a PaO2 of 7.8kPa, and a PaCO2 of 6.4kPa; on 28% venturi mask.
6. Present your acid-base findings i.e. [acidaemia/alkalaemia] of [respiratory/metabolic] origin, with [no/partial/full] [respiratory/metabolic] compensation.
7. Any other abnormal findings or relevant negative results?
8. Likely differentials? -causes covered in the 'causes of disruption' page

Example

“This is an arterial blood gas sample taken at 09:41 today from Mr David Franklin, a 79-year-old gentleman who presented this morning with shortness of breath at rest. He has a background of heart failure and on auscultation of the chest he has bibasal crackles.

It showed type one respiratory failure with a PaO2 of 10.3kPa and a PaCO2 of 4.3kPa; on 15l/min oxygen via a non-rebreathe mask.

The pH was normal, and no other values with abnormal.

In summary this gentleman has type 1 respiratory failure, likely due to a acute decompensation of his pre-existing heart failure.”