Anatomy

Commonly used shorthand for ‘blood gas analysis’. Core monitoring tool widely used in intensive care. Small blood samples (1-2mls) are taken regularly from a patient’s arterial line and processed through an analyser on the unit. Measures blood pH and levels (partial pressures) of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Results are used to adjust organ support therapies.

Either one of the heart’s two upper chambers.

Relating to self. For example, autologous stem cells are those taken from the patient’s own body.