NREMT Paramedic Practice

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What is the primary purpose of arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis?

To assess blood glucose levels
To evaluate acid-base status and gas exchange
To measure electrolyte concentration
To determine hemoglobin levels

The correct answer is: To evaluate acid-base status and gas exchange

The primary purpose of arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is to evaluate acid-base status and gas exchange. This test measures several parameters in arterial blood, including the levels of oxygen (PaO2), carbon dioxide (PaCO2), and bicarbonate (HCO3-), along with the pH of the blood. By analyzing these values, healthcare providers can assess the respiratory and metabolic functions of a patient. The results provide insight into how well oxygen is being transported in the blood and how effectively carbon dioxide is being expelled, which are crucial for determining the patient’s ventilatory and metabolic status. This information can guide treatment decisions in various conditions, such as respiratory failure, metabolic disturbances, and other critical situations where the patient's acid-base balance might be disrupted. In context, while assessing blood glucose levels, measuring electrolyte concentration, and determining hemoglobin levels are important clinical evaluations, they are not the primary objectives of an ABG analysis. Each of those measurements serves different purposes and would typically be conducted through other tests rather than an ABG.