Pericardiocentesis Flashcards
1
Q
Why do we do Pericardiocentesis? (2)
A
- Therapeutic
- Diagnostic
2
Q
How do you position for a Pericardiocentesis?
A
•Left lateral recumbence
–Avoid laceration of main coronary vessels
–The right side has a larger cardiac notch
•Between the 4th and 6th intercostal space at the level of the costochondral junction (elbow crosses the costochondral junction)
3
Q
What other therapies/monitoring must you use?
A
- Sedation
- Aggressive fluid
- ECG monitor
4
Q
What are the possible complications of Pericardiocentesis? (5)
A
–Cardiac puncture
–Arrhythmias
–Dissemination of infection or neoplasia
–Atrial fibrillation
–Myocardial stunning (systolic dysfunction post-drainage)
5
Q
How do you approach a Pericardiocentesis?
A
- ECG (?)
- Clip right thoracic wall and surgical prep
- Infiltrate LA at costochondral junction
- ICS 4-6
- Stab incision
- 5 inch catheter
- Advance until feel scratch / pop
- NB withdraw 2ml & check if clots!!!!!
