Enter the bicarbonate level and the arterial blood gas value into the calculator to determine the arterial blood gas.

Abg (Arterial Blood Gas) Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the arterial blood gas (ABG) values.

ABG = (HCO3 * 1.5) + 8 ± 2

Variables:

  • ABG is the arterial blood gas value (mmol/L)
  • HCO3 is the bicarbonate level (mmol/L)

To calculate the arterial blood gas value, multiply the bicarbonate level by 1.5. Then add 8 to the result. The final ABG value should be within the range of ± 2 from the calculated result.

What is a Abg (Arterial Blood Gas)?

An Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) is a blood test that measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, as well as the acidity (pH) of the blood. It is typically performed by drawing blood from an artery, usually in the wrist. The test provides information about how well the lungs are functioning and how well the body is able to transport and use oxygen. It can be used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart failure.

How to Calculate Abg (Arterial Blood Gas)?

The following steps outline how to calculate the ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) using the given formula:


  1. First, determine the bicarbonate level (HCO3) in mmol/L.
  2. Multiply the bicarbonate level (HCO3) by 1.5.
  3. Add 8 to the result obtained in step 2.
  4. Finally, the ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) value is the result obtained in step 3, with a possible variation of ±2.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge:

bicarbonate level (HCO3) = 20 mmol/L

ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) = (HCO3 * 1.5) + 8 ± 2