3 Step ABG Interpretation
Mike’s Marching Band Suit Method
Marching band suit method
pH
PaCO₂
HCO₃
A
B
7.35
7.45
B
A
35
45
A
B
22
26
TEST TIP
Write this chart out 5 - 10 times every day the week
of your ABG exam.
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
PaCO₂
HCO₃
Step 1
pH is on 1st!
Think pH is primary since it comes first.
Step 2
CO2 comes 2nd.
Look at the 2 in CO2, it comes 2nd.
Lungs on top
Step 3
HCO3 comes 3rd.
Look at the 3 in HCO2, it comes 3nd.
Kidneys on bottom
Phase 2 - Key numbers to memorize
pH
PaCO₂
HCO₃
A
B
7.35
7.45
B
A
35
45
A
B
22
26
Top line 7.35 - 7.45
Middle
35 - 45 (7 goes to heaven)
Bottom 22 - 26 (think 2+2+2 = 6)
Phase 3 - Label it A & B
A
B
cid
pH
PaCO₂
ase
HCO₃
A
B
7.35
7.45
B
A
35
45
A
B
22
26