A VBG is ordered with calcium; what collection considerations prevent false analysis?

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Proper handling of a venous blood gas sample is essential because gas values and pH are highly sensitive to post-collection changes. Collecting the sample anaerobically minimizes exposure to air, preventing oxygen from entering and carbon dioxide from escaping, which helps preserve the true gas tensions. Keeping the specimen cold or on ice slows cellular metabolism, reducing glycolysis and other metabolic changes that can alter pH, lactate, and related measurements. Warming the sample, exposing it to air, or collecting aerobically would accelerate gas exchange and metabolic activity, leading to false analysis.