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Respiratory Therapist

Category - Patient Evaluations and Recommendations

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When performing an arterial blood gas calibration, what can cause the PO₂to lower, PaCO₂to increase, and pH to lower?

Not analyzing in a timely manner
Not calibrating the analyzer
Not mixing sample adequately
Having an out of control analyzer

Explanation

Answer: A - A patient’s arterial blood gas results will show a lower PO₂ and pH with a higher PaCO₂ if the sample is not analyzed in a timely manner. If a sample is left at room air over 15 minutes, metabolism will occur and the results will not be correct.

An uncalibrated analyzer will not produce accurate test results. Poor mixing of the sample before analysis can results in an inhomogeneous sample. Results from an out of control analyzer will not be accurate as it is not calibrated correctly.

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