PaO2mittauksia

PaO2mittauksia refers to measurements of the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood. This vital physiological parameter reflects the oxygen-carrying capacity of the lungs and the efficiency of oxygen transfer from the alveoli into the bloodstream.

The measurement is typically performed using a blood gas analyzer on an arterial blood sample, most commonly drawn from the radial artery in the wrist. The resulting value, expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) or kilopascals (kPa), indicates how much oxygen is dissolved in the arterial plasma.

Normal PaO2 values in healthy adults at sea level generally range from 80 to 100 mmHg. Deviations from this range can signify various medical conditions. A low PaO2, known as hypoxemia, suggests inadequate oxygenation of the blood. This can be caused by lung diseases such as pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as conditions affecting breathing like sleep apnea or respiratory depression.

Conversely, a high PaO2, or hyperoxemia, is less common and usually indicates that a patient is receiving supplemental oxygen at a very high concentration. While generally not harmful in the short term, prolonged exposure to very high oxygen levels can potentially lead to oxygen toxicity.

PaO2 measurements are crucial in diagnosing and monitoring respiratory failure, assessing the severity of lung disease, and guiding treatment strategies, particularly in critical care settings. They are often interpreted in conjunction with other blood gas parameters like PaCO2 and pH.