Arterial Blood Gases Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have an arterial blood gases test, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Injury to the artery

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the test.

Call Your Doctor

After the test, call your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Bleeding or severe bruising
• Weakness, tingling, or numbness of an extremity

In case of emergency, CALL 911.