Optimizing Blood Gas Monitoring: A Collaborative Approach across Critical Care, Laboratory, and Respiratory Therapy Disciplines

Abstract

This review focuses on the role of blood gas monitoring in the management of the critically ill and provides evidence of the need for an interdisciplinary approach to optimize the care provided. Blood gas analysis determines the arterial oxygen tension (PaO2), arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2), and pH and is a source of crucial information about the respiratory and metabolic status of the patient that is imperative in guiding clinical decisions. Effective blood gas monitoring allows the caregiver to estimate the state of oxygenation, ventilation, and acid-base balance-all important components in managing the acutely ill patient. The review also puts into light some of the key roles played by the critical care clinician, the laboratory professional, and the respiratory therapist in interpreting and responding to blood gas results, while emphasizing teamwork and communication for the improvement of patient outcomes. This is integrated with technological advances and quality assurance measures that improve both the accuracy and efficiency in blood gas monitoring in critical care.