Suggested Patients with/under:

• Symptoms of a respiratory problem such as difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or rapid breathing

• Treatment for a lung disease or oxygen therapy 

• Suspected acid-base imbalance 

• A condition that causes an acute or chronic oxygen shortage

• Certain surgeries to monitor blood's O2 and CO2 levels 

Blood in heparinized syringe (in ice bath), 1ml

All requests form must be stated time of collection and sample type clearly (arterial, venous or else specified)

Use heparin as an anticoagulant only for blood gas sample.

Sample must be mixed thoroughly immediately by rolling the syringe between palms/inverting upon drawing to prevent formation of clot that causing damage of the machine. Expel all bubbles in the syringe.

Remove needle and seal the syringe with parafilm or appropriate cap. 

Label the syringe with two identifier (Name and identity no - NRIC/MRN) as depicted in the illustration below

Send the sealed sample to lab immediately with completed form and must be placed in a bath containing ice and water to slow down the metabolic process. Sample for blood gas, electrolytes and Hct should be analyzed within 15 minutes; sample for glucose and lactate should be analyzed within 5 minutes. Ice-water stored sample at 1 to 4oC may give reliable results for up to 30 minutes.