The primary way to distinguish between an arterial blood gas (ABG) and a venous blood gas (VBG) is by how the blood sample is collected.
Here's a breakdown:
- Arterial Blood Gas (ABG): Must be drawn from an artery, such as the radial artery. According to emergencymedicalminute.org, ABGs require arterial access.
- Venous Blood Gas (VBG): Typically collected from existing venous access, like a central venous catheter, as stated by emergencymedicalminute.org.
In short, the source of the blood sample - artery vs. vein - is the definitive factor.
