Arterial Lines Flashcards
Why might an arterial access line be inserted?
Because a patient requires frequent monitoring of systemic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure or frequent arterial blood gases.
What is involved in a neurovascular assessment?
Neurovascular assessment: 5 P’s
* Pain
* Pulses
* Pallor
* Paresthesia
* Paralysis
What does overdamping means with arterial lines?
Overdamping (defined as when the oscillations following the downstroke are sluggish and can underestimate systolic pressure or overestimate diastolic pressure). Causes include: Loose connections. Air bubbles. Kinks.
What is this waveform an example of?
Normal arterial line waveform
Is this arterial waveform overdamped or underdamped?
Overdamped
Is this arterial waveform overdamped or underdamped?
Underdamped
What does underdamped mean in relation to arterial lines?
Underdamping (defined as when the oscillations are too pronounced and can lead to a false high systolic or a false low diastolic pressure). Causes include: Catheter whip or artefact. Stiff non-compliant tubing
What is an arterial line? What is it used for?
- Measures constant BP
- More accurate BP because it is in the artery
- A small catheter is used and inserted into a peripheral artery, usually the radial artery, although the ulnar artery can also be used
What are common arteries to use for art lines?
Radial (most common site)
Brachial
Femoral
What test is conducted prior to inserting an art line into the radial artery?
Modified Allen test
What does the systolic phase of the waveform represent?
the heart contracting
What does the dicrotic notch on the waveform represent?
closure of the aortic valve
What level should the transducer be kept at?
The level of the right atrium?
