Therapeutische Umschau. Revue thérapeutique
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The arterial blood gas analysis (ABGA) is a valuable diagnostic tool in daily clinical practice. It yields information about oxygenation, ventilation and acid-base status. ABGAs should always be interpreted within a clinical context. ⋯ When FIO2 is changed, steady state conditions must be awaited before a next control especially in the case of ventilation-perfusion mismatch, e. g. in COPD, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism. In a hypoxic state, immediate application of oxygen is warranted, in hypercapnia, ventilation should be increased. In acid-base disorders, treatment of the underlying disease is most often conducive.