(^80) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
- Increased pCO 2 indicates COPD.
- Decreased pCO 2 indicates hypoxemia.
- Increased HCO 3 indicates dehydration, COPD.
- Decreased HCO 3 indicates fluid loss.
- Increased pO 2 shows hyperventilation.
- Decreased pO 2 shows anemia, respiratory difficulties.
WHAT TO DO?
Before the test:- Explain to the patient that arterial sticks may be more uncomfortable than
venous labwork performed by the phlebotomists. - Provide the lab with information on whether or not the patient is receiving
supplemental or mechanical ventilation as well as on the amount of oxygen
received or the setting of the ventilator as it may alter the results.
After the test: - Apply mechanical pressure to puncture site for 5 minutes.
- Apply pressure dressing to puncture site for 30 minutes once bleeding has
stopped. - Monitor the puncture site for bleeding.
Venogram
WHY IS IT GIVEN?
This x-ray test takes pictures of the blood flow through the veins. It is used to iden-
tify and locate blood clots and to determine the condition of the valves in the veins.HOW DOES THE TEST WORK?
An iodine dye is injected into the vein, making the vein visible in a fluoroscope;
this allows the physician to visualize the flow of venous blood.