Question:
Will the person obtaining the ABG numb the area before the test is done?

I've never had an arterial blood gas test, but if I happen to need one, will the area from where it is to be obtained be "numbed" first? I heard it really hurts!!!    — yourdivaness (posted on April 11, 2002)

April 11, 2002
I had my blood gas test today and they said with this test it is not necessary, WELL let me tell you I have to disagree! Just one word sums this test up! OUCH!
   — Peggy R.

April 11, 2002
I'm not going to lie to you, it does hurt, but the more you try and relax the easier it is. I have had many done because my asthma is so bad, so having it done for my surgery I knew what to expect.
   — KAREN J.

April 11, 2002
Hi. I had an ABG done pre-operatively. Luckily, the pulmonologist did the stick for me so it was not bad at all. He knew exactly where to go. To sort of answer your question about "numbing"-- the pain is deep in the wtist as the needle passes through deeper tissues and then the actual artery being punctured. So, there would be no benefit from numbing the skin when that is not the source of pain. Ask for a seasoned phlebotomist that is educated and trained well in performing ABG's. You will be fine.
   — Pamela G.

April 11, 2002
They don't numb the skin and it DOES hurt!!
   — Patty H.

April 11, 2002
I have drawn ABG's for over 25 years. I am a respiratory therapist and depending on your hospital many of the therapists draw the blood gases. I would ask for a respiratory therapist (NOT a resident) to draw your blood gas. It is all in technique. Not trying to brag but I hurt very few patients. It is very important to relax and NOT hold your breath during the procedure as they have to feel your pulse to know where to stick. If you tense your artery will be come hard and difficult to get through. My advise would be to ask for a person who has done them for a long time.
   — Cindy M.

April 12, 2002
I agree with Cindy. I just had mine done on 04/10/02. Everyone told me it would hurt real bad. The respiratory therapist drew mine from my wrist, down below my thumb. It was obvious that she knew what she was doing, because all I felt was a little prick. It hurt less then a normal blood draw. As long as the person doing it is experienced at it, it won't hurt at all. Do not let them allow a new person to practice on you, not on something like this. Good luck.
   — Lonnie I.

April 23, 2002
I to had this done and it didnt hurt one bit...It hurt less then a regular blood test..Like the person before me said its taken from your wrist right below your thumb..Sounds worse than it really is.. Dont worry ..Youll be fine.. : ) Good Luck!
   — Kathleen R.

November 25, 2002
I was not numbed and it did hurt more than the other blood test.
   — AMY J.

May 12, 2003
I was really dreading the ABG! I had read it hurt and was unbearable and all kinds of terrible things. It was less painful than the last time I had blood drawn. The tech that did it knew I was scared and she was a little nervous. But it really did not hurt. Teri
   — Teri C.

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