30. A nurse is concerned that the results of a client's recent arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis may be inaccurate. Which factors may affect the accuracy of ABG results?
Select all that apply.
30. A nurse is concerned that the results of a client's recent arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis may be inaccurate. Which factors may affect the accuracy of ABG results?
Select all that apply.
. Creatinine level of client that continues to rise.
. Client has been increasingly more confused.
. Sample was drawn 15 minutes after suctioning.
. Absence of an air bubble in the ABG.
. Sample returned to the lab an hour after it was drawn.
. Sample drawn from peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC).
Test-Taking Tip
Look for the options that describe possible errors in collection or handling of the sample. Note the word "sample" in the three correct answers.
Content Area: Adult Health, Hematological; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/Laboratory Values
. . .
Answer 1 is incorrect because kidney function would affect acid-base balance, but the technique for drawing the sample affects the accuracy of the results or values. Answer 2 is incorrect because confusion does not affect the accuracy of the sample. Answer 3 is correct because blood gases should be drawn at least 20 minutes after suctioning because suctioning removes oxygen. Answer 4 is incorrect because there should not be an air bubble in the sample. A bubble would affect the accuracy. Answer 5 is correct because the blood gas sample should be placed on ice and returned to the laboratory as quickly as possible. Answer 6 is correct because blood from a PICC line is venous blood, not arterial.