Blood Gasses??

Of all the things to be scared to death of!! I am totally terrified of having the arterial blood gasses done. I hate needles and if there is pain involved it just makes it worse. My question is... Is this test necessary or just routine?? Is there another test that would be easier which will give the same results? Has everyone had this test prior to surgery?

It depends on the Dr usually. Where are you having it done at. I am going to st v's in cleveland and I didn't have to, I really thought I would because I was a smoker. I have no idea where your town is but if you let the forum know who is doing surgery then someone might be able to answer. Oh yea, sorry there is no other test that tell what the blood gases do. barb

Thanks for your reply!! I am going to The Wish Center in Springboro. Also I am a smoker... trying to quit

I just had mine done last week. I will be honest and it does hurt but it is really fast. Once they find the artery and your heart pumps the blood up it is over in like less then 2 min. You will feel a little faint ( i did) but don't hyperventilate. I was told if you do then you have to start over again. This test is necessary because they have to see how much oxygen your lungs are taking in. This is vital for the anesthia you will be getting. Once the needle is out you will just have to keep a bandage on it for about an hour. It is really a fast test. It just depends on how fast he can find your artery. I just didnt look. Needles don't bother me as long as I don't look.. Good luck! Doreen