What is an ABG?

ABG stands for Arterial Blood Gas, which is a test that measures the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and the pH of arterial blood. ABG tests are commonly used in hospitals to assess a patient's lung function and determine how well oxygen is being transported through the blood. Healthcare professionals, such as respiratory therapists and nurses, often perform ABG tests to help diagnose and monitor conditions like respiratory failure, metabolic imbalances, and critical illnesses.