Nursing responsibilities for obtaining arterial blood gas (ABG) measurements include explaining the procedure and its purpose, ensuring the patient is positioned correctly, collecting the blood sample in a heparinized syringe, and applying pressure to the puncture site after collection to prevent hematoma.

Nurses must explain the ABG procedure and its purpose to the patient. They should assist in positioning the patient, typically with the palm up and wrist slightly hyperextended for radial artery puncture. Blood is collected in a heparinized syringe, and it is crucial to expel air bubbles and place the sample on ice if it will not be analyzed immediately. After obtaining the sample, nurses must apply pressure to the artery for five minutes to prevent hematoma formation.

Key points

Explain the ABG procedure and its purpose to the patient.
Assist with patient positioning for arterial puncture.
Collect blood in a heparinized syringe and expel air bubbles.
Place the sample on ice if not analyzed immediately.
Apply pressure to the puncture site for five minutes after collection.

What nursing responsibilities are associated with obtaining arterial blood gas (ABG) measurements according to the chapter?