Sample interview questions: Can you discuss your knowledge of blood gas analysis and interpretation?
Sample answer:
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Blood Gas Analysis:
- Measures the levels of various gases (oxygen, carbon dioxide) and other parameters (pH, electrolytes) in arterial or venous blood.
- Performed to assess respiratory and metabolic function, acid-base balance, and electrolyte abnormalities.
- Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is more common and provides a more accurate assessment of oxygenation and acid-base status.
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Interpretation of Blood Gas Results:
- pH: Normal range: 7.35-7.45. Acidosis (pH < 7.35) can result from respiratory or metabolic causes. Alkalosis (pH > 7.45) can be respiratory or metabolic.
- PaCO2 (Partial Pressure of Carbon Dioxide): Normal range: 35-45 mmHg. Elevated PaCO2 (hypercapnia) indicates respiratory acidosis. Decreased PaCO2 (hypocapnia) indicates respiratory alkalosis.
- PaO2 (Partial Pressure of Oxygen): Normal range: 80-100 mmHg. Decreased PaO2 (hypoxemia) can result from lung disease, ventilation-perfusion mismatch, or decreased cardiac output.
- SaO2 (Oxygen Saturation): Normal range: 95-100%. Decreased SaO2 indicates hypoxemia and impaired oxygen delivery to tissues.
- Bicarbonate (HCO3-): Normal range: 22-26 mEq/L. Increased HCO3- (metabolic alkalosis) can result from bicarbonate administration, vomiting, or contraction alkalosis. Decreased HCO3- (metabolic acidosis) can result from diarrhea, renal failure, or diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Base Excess (BE): Normal range: -2 to +… Read full answer
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