Arterial and venous blood gases: indications, interpretations, and clinical applications.

Blood gas analysis is frequently requested as part of the point-of-care testing for emergency or critical care patients presenting with metabolic or respiratory abnormalities. With the advent of portable units, information regarding a patient's acid-base, ventilation, and oxygenation status can be rapidly obtained. This article provides essential information on arterial and venous blood gas analysis with the goal of helping clinicians integrate such data in their case management.