RESPIRATORY

ARTERIAL BLOOD GAS (PROCEDURAL SKILL)

Introduction

5 min

Introduce yourself and the group

Provide rationale for the session and relevance to clinical practice

Outline learning objectives:

To understand the key anatomical structures of the wrist with reference to radial artery puncture
To demonstrate appropriate preparation and consent taking procedures for taking arterial blood gas samples
To demonstrate competence in obtaining arterial blood samples form the radial artery

Explain structure of session

Total time:

60 min

Number of students:

5-12

Grade of students:

3rd to 5th year medical students

Created by:

Dr Charlotte Hayden

Uploaded:

20th September 2019

Last updated:

20th September 2019

Resources needed for this session:

Model arm suitable for taking arterial blood samples, suitable needles and arterial blood gas syringes, alcohol wipes, gloves, sharps bin, cotton wool and micropore tape

Resources linked to this session:

Arterial blood gas interpretation

Activity 1: Pathophysiology and anatomy recap

5 min

Encourage the students to discuss the following:

When might an arterial blood gas be indicated?
Where can arterial blood gas samples be taken from?
Finding and assessment of the radial artery including positioning.
Allen's test

Activity 2: Consent and preparation

5 min

Split students into two groups. Ask each group to consider the following and write some suggestions on post-it notes (2-3 mins).

What are the key considerations before taking arterial blood gas samples?
What risks and benefits do you need to discuss with the patient to obtain verbal consent?

Ask the students to present their thoughts to the other group. Fill in any gaps in knowledge.

Activity 3: Demonstration

5 min

Demonstrate the procedure of taking an arterial blood gas sample for students to watch, including:

Introduction
Consent
Preparation inc. Allen's test
Taking the blood sample
How to process the sample

Follow local policy regarding aseptic non-touch techniques, sharps disposal etc.

Activity 4: Practice

40 min

Allow each student in turn to practice the skill of radial artery puncture on a demonstration model. They should demonstrate the full sequence of processes (as above) if time.

For larger groups, consider using two model arms and/or splitting groups into two smaller groups. Allow one to practice explanation, consent and preparation whilst the other practice the process of taking blood. Switch groups after 20 minutes.