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1. Blood Gas Analysis.doc May 2011
Blood Gas Analysis
Competency Statement:
The nurse safely and effectively performs and interprets the analysis of a blood gas specimen
Competency elements Date Signed
1. Identify the following components measured in arterial blood gas analysis
and state their normal ranges:
a. pH
b. pCO2
c. p02
d. BE
e. HCO3
2. Identify the normal variables for the
a. Venous sample
b. Capillary sample
c. Arterial sample
3. State the possible indications for a taking a blood gas sample
4. Demonstrate the correct procedure to obtain a
a. Arterial blood gas sample
b. Venous blood gas sample
c. Capillary blood gas sample
5. Demonstrate a step by step process to interpret the blood gas analysis
6. Identify
a. Respiratory acidosis
b. Respiratory alkalosis
c. Metabolic acidosis
d. Metabolic alkalosis
7. State the causes of
a. Respiratory acidosis
b. Respiratory alkalosis
c. Metabolic acidosis
d. Metabolic alkalosis
8. Discuss compensation in acid – base status
9. Articulate considerations for patients with mixed circulation when performing
blood gas analysis
10. Identify the correct management of the patient with altered blood gas
analysis

2. Blood Gas Analysis.doc May 2011
I, the undersigned, have demonstrated the necessary knowledge, skills, attitudes, values and/or
abilities to be deemed competent in caring for a patient requiring blood gas analysis. I acknowledge
that ongoing development and maintenance of competency is my responsibility and will be evidenced
in my Professional Practice Portfolio.
Nurse
Name………………………………Signature…………………………………Date …../…../……….
Assessor (Preceptor or CNE/F)
Name………………………………Signature…………………………………Date …../…../……….
Competency Feedback and Reflections
Element
number
Feedback and Reflections Date Assessor
sign
Nurse
sign