In the context of respiratory therapy, what does ABG stand for?

In the realm of respiratory therapy, ABG stands for Arterial Blood Gas. This test is crucial as it measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, as well as the blood's acidity (pH). It is performed on a sample of arterial blood, which is drawn from an artery, usually in the wrist, to evaluate how well the lungs are functioning in gas exchange and to assess the patient's overall respiratory status.

The information gathered from an arterial blood gas analysis helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about the patient's treatment plan, particularly in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or respiratory distress. It provides key indicators of respiratory function, including ventilation and oxygenation levels, which are vital for patient management. Understanding ABG results is fundamental for respiratory therapists, as they guide interventions such as oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation.