Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

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What is the impact of a trapped air bubble on the Pvo2 measurement in a mixed venous blood sample?

Increase
Decrease
No effect
Variable

The correct answer is: Increase

A trapped air bubble in a mixed venous blood sample can lead to an increase in the partial pressure of oxygen (Pvo2) measurement. This occurs because the air bubble introduces additional oxygen into the sample that wasn't present in the venous blood. Since mixed venous blood is expected to have lower oxygen levels due to the deoxygenation process occurring during circulation, the presence of a bubble can artificially elevate the Pvo2 reading. This phenomenon underscores the importance of proper sampling technique in measuring blood gases. If a sample is contaminated with an air bubble, it can lead to misinterpretation of a patient's oxygenation status, potentially resulting in inappropriate clinical decisions. A thorough understanding of how various factors influence blood gas analysis is crucial for anesthesia technologists, as accurate monitoring of oxygen levels is vital for patient safety and effective anesthesia management.