Arterial Blood Gases. Test Overview. An arterial blood gas (ABG) test measures the acidity (pH) and the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood from an artery. This test is used to check how well your lungs are able to move oxygen into the blood and remove carbon dioxide from the blood.
How Often the Test Is Done During Your Pregnancy. Your doctor may use the Doppler often to listen to your baby's heartbeat during routine checkups, starting at about 8 to 10 weeks. Handheld Dopplers will not work quite this early.
Your doctor will utilize a variety of instruments during a physical examination such as a thermometer to measure your temperature; a blood pressure monitor to measure blood pressure; a stethoscope to listen to organs such as the abdomen, heart and lungs; an ophthalmoscope to examine the eyes; a speculum to allow examination of the cervix; and an ...