Gently tap any air bubbles to the top and expel into the gauze. If the syringe is slightly tilted, the air bubbles will be trapped in the syringe hub. By holding the syringe upright, the air will be expelled out of the syringe and into the gauze. Drawing air into the syringe can falsely elevate the PaO 2 . 6. Label the syringe and place on ice.
Ice stops the cells from metabolizing.
If there is a delay before the sample is tested, a sample that is left at room temperature may have a false increase in carbon dioxide, decreased pH or lowered PaO 2 due to continued cell metabolism. Flush the catheter and stopcock of blood and replace cap as per blood drawing protocol. To maintain catheter patency and reduce potential for bacterial colonization. Blood gases are corrected to body temperature. Document results in the graphic record and communicate any significant findings to the physician and respiratory therapist.