3 Step ABG Interpretation

Mike’s Marching Band Suit Method

Marching band suit method

A B
pH 7.35 7.45 TEST TIP

Write this chart out 5 - 10 times every day the week

B A
PaCO₂
35 45

A B of your ABG exam.

HCO₃
22 26

Side Note: Many students & instructors use the ROME or Tic-Tac-Toe method, but that can get very confusing when interpreting
partial vs. full compensation. Use the marching band suit method to make it simple & get all your ABG questions
correct!

Set Up the Chart

Phase 1 - Set up the chart

pH is on 1st!
Step 1 Think pH is primary since it comes first.
pH CO2 comes 2nd.
Step 2 Look at the 2 in CO2, it comes 2nd.
PaCO₂ Lungs on top

HCO3 comes 3rd.

HCO₃ Step 3 Look at the 3 in HCO2, it comes 3nd.
Kidneys on bottom

Phase 2 - Key numbers to memorize

A B
pH 7.35 7.45

B A
Top line 7.35 - 7.45
PaCO₂ Middle 35 - 45 (7 goes to heaven)
35 45
Bottom 22 - 26 (think 2+2+2 = 6)
A B
HCO₃
22 26

Phase 3 - Label it A & B

A cid
A B
pH 7.35 7.45

B A
PaCO₂
35 45

B ase HCO₃
A

22
B

26