Question 1

How do you interpret ABG results?

Accepted Answer

Follow 3 steps: (1) Look at pH — below 7.35 is acidosis, above 7.45 is alkalosis. (2) Check PaCO2 — if it moves opposite to pH, the problem is respiratory. (3) Check HCO3 — if it moves with pH, the problem is metabolic. Then determine if compensation is present.

Question 2

What are normal ABG values?

Accepted Answer

Normal arterial blood gas values: pH 7.35-7.45, PaCO2 35-45 mmHg, HCO3 22-26 mEq/L, PaO2 80-100 mmHg, SaO2 95-100%. Values outside these ranges indicate an acid-base disturbance.

Question 3

What is the ROME method for ABG interpretation?

Accepted Answer

ROME stands for Respiratory Opposite, Metabolic Equal. In respiratory disorders, pH and PaCO2 move in opposite directions. In metabolic disorders, pH and HCO3 move in the same (equal) direction. This mnemonic helps nurses quickly identify the primary disorder.

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