Slagæðablóðgasteymi

Slagæðablóðgasteymi, often translated as arterial blood gas (ABG) team, refers to a specialized group of healthcare professionals responsible for the collection and analysis of arterial blood gas samples. These teams are typically found in hospital settings, particularly in critical care units like intensive care units (ICUs) and emergency departments. The primary role of an ABG team is to ensure timely and accurate assessment of a patient's respiratory and metabolic status by obtaining arterial blood.

The collection of arterial blood is an invasive procedure requiring specific training and expertise. ABG teams consist of individuals such as respiratory therapists, critical care nurses, or phlebotomists who have undergone specialized training in arterial puncture techniques. They are skilled in identifying appropriate arterial sites, such as the radial artery, and performing the puncture safely and efficiently, minimizing patient discomfort and risk of complications.

Once collected, the blood sample is promptly transported to a laboratory or analyzed on-site using a blood gas analyzer. This analysis provides crucial data on oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, pH, and bicarbonate concentrations. These parameters are vital for diagnosing and managing a wide range of conditions, including respiratory failure, metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, and shock. The ABG team plays a critical role in the patient care pathway by facilitating rapid diagnosis and guiding therapeutic interventions.