abg blood work

My surgeron is having me have the ABG ..from the artery. I am not looking forward to it at all. Any advice or suggestions? Did u have to have it done also? I am looking for input on the reasoning behind this stupid test..it seems to me like these people are getting money hungry and ordering every test in the book! I am looking for answers.. Heather

Hi, Heather! As a medical laboratory technologist, I can tell you that the ABG yields alot of important information. It is the best way for your surgeon to evaluate how well your lungs are doing their job of taking in oxygen and giving off carbon dioxide. This will be very important during surgery, as it is something that the anaestheologist will need to keep a close eye on. I could give you a long technical explanation of the test, but the heart of the matter is that the pH of the blood and the concentrations of oxygen and carbon dioxide monoxide that it contain are affected by different diseases/conditions in different ways, and it is to your benefit that your surgeon has a clear picture of what's going on with you before you go into the OR. Talk to your doctor...tell him you don't understand why he's ordering the test and ask him to explain it to you...not only will you feel better about doing it but you'll also have a better relationship with your doctor. Take care and remember that everything you're going through now and everything you have yet to experience are working together toward a healthier, happier you. Lisa

Heather...being an asthmatic I have had MANY MANY ABG's. No, they are not fun...but they provide important information for the doctor. The best advise I can give is to try to remain as still as possible when they are sticking you...after inserting the needle, they have to try to puncture the artery in between heartbeats, so try to be still and relaxed. To me, it's worse when the needle is being pulled out...and the best thing to do is apply lots of pressure. They should put some tape on pretty tight, and if it's not, I would push on the place with my thumb to apply the pressure. This helps to alleviate bruising as well. Good luck...I hope I helped some. Sheila

Heather, I would just like to echo the earlier replies. No, ABG's are not fun, but it only lasts a few seconds and it's over. One more bridge crossed in your WLS journey. Good luck girl!!!