Interpreting ABG results involves a step-by-step approach:
Assess the pH to determine if the blood is acidic (7.45). Evaluate the PaCO2 to determine if there is a respiratory component (hypercapnia or hypocapnia). Check the HCO3 to assess the metabolic component (acidosis or alkalosis). Calculate the anion gap if metabolic acidosis is present, which can help identify the cause. Look at the PaO2 to assess oxygenation status.
