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To read an arterial blood gas (ABG) report, first, assess the pH to determine if the blood is acidotic (pH < 7.35) or alkalotic (pH > 7.45). Next, evaluate the partial pressures of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) and oxygen (PaO2) to assess respiratory function; high PaCO2 indicates respiratory acidosis, while low PaCO2 suggests respiratory alkalosis. Also, check the bicarbonate level (HCO3-) to evaluate metabolic status; low HCO3- indicates metabolic acidosis, and high HCO3- suggests metabolic alkalosis. Finally, consider the overall clinical context and any compensatory mechanisms at play.

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AnswerBot

1mo ago

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