Arterial Blood Gases

Blood gases may be sent through the pneumatic tube system. When sending specimens, remove the needle from the syringe and cap the syringe. Do not send the needle.

Reference Ranges

pH

7.38 - 7.42

pCO2

4.7 - 6.0 kPa (35 - 45 mmHg)

pO2

12.0 - 14.6 kPa (90 - 110 mmHg)

Bicarbonate

21 - 25 mmol/L

Methaemoglobin

<1.0% of total Hb

Base Excess

-2 - +2 mmol/L