36600 Withdrawal of arterial blood
Also known as: ABG draw, arterial blood gas, arterial stick
Withdrawal of arterial blood for blood gas analysis (includes puncture and sampling via arterial catheter).
In Plain Language
taking a blood sample from an artery; arterial blood test
Clinical Context
Used for assessment of oxygenation, ventilation, and acid-base status. Common in emergency, intensive care, and operating room settings.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.31 |
| Total RVU | 0.31 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.31, this code ranks in the 0th percentile among Surgery codes — 25.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36600?
CPT 36600 (Withdrawal of arterial blood) is a Surgery code. Withdrawal of arterial blood for blood gas analysis (includes puncture and sampling via arterial catheter).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36600?
The work RVU for CPT 36600 is 0.31. This code is primarily used by Laboratory Medicine, Critical Care, Anesthesia.
When is CPT 36600 used?
Used for assessment of oxygenation, ventilation, and acid-base status. Common in emergency, intensive care, and operating room settings.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.