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Arterial stick - Results

Alternative Names

Blood sample - arterial

Normal Values:

See specific tests, particularly the arterial blood gas test.

Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

What abnormal results mean:

An arterial stick is done to get blood samples from arteries. Arterial blood samples are mainly taken to measure arterial blood gases (which may indicate breathing problems or metabolic disorders). However, arterial sticks may sometimes be done to get blood culture or blood chemistry samples.

  • Reviewed last on: 2/1/2011
  • Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Milzman D, Janchar T. Arterial puncture and cannulation. In: Roberts JR, Hedges JR, eds. Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2009:chap 20.

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