Hemodynamic Monitoring & Vascular Access Flashcards

A PCU patient has an arterial line in place. The nurse notes the waveform is dampened. What is the most appropriate first action?

Answer: Check for air bubbles, kinks, or loose connections in the tubing

A dampened arterial waveform is most commonly caused by air bubbles, clots, kinks, or loose connections, which should be assessed and corrected first before other interventions.

The phlebostatic axis, used as the reference point for hemodynamic monitoring, is located at the intersection of which anatomical landmarks?

Answer: The midaxillary line and the 4th intercostal space

The phlebostatic axis is at the intersection of the midaxillary line and the 4th intercostal space, corresponding to the level of the right atrium.

A patient's central venous pressure (CVP) reading is 2 mmHg. Which clinical condition does this finding most likely indicate?

Answer: Hypovolemia

A CVP of 2 mmHg is below the normal range of 2–8 mmHg and suggests hypovolemia or decreased venous return.

Which of the following is a contraindication to placing a radial arterial line?

Answer: Positive Allen's test

A positive Allen's test indicates inadequate collateral circulation from the ulnar artery, making radial arterial line placement unsafe due to risk of hand ischemia.

When zeroing an arterial line transducer, the nurse should:

Answer: Close the stopcock to the patient and open it to air

Zeroing requires closing the stopcock to the patient and opening it to air (atmospheric pressure) so the monitor can calibrate to zero.

A PCU nurse is caring for a patient with a central venous catheter (CVC). Which action is essential when changing the CVC dressing?

Answer: Apply a transparent, semipermeable membrane dressing using sterile technique

CVC dressing changes require sterile technique with a transparent semipermeable membrane dressing to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI).

A patient's mean arterial pressure (MAP) is calculated to be 58 mmHg. How should the nurse interpret this finding?

Answer: Inadequate to maintain organ perfusion; intervention required

A MAP below 65 mmHg is considered inadequate for organ perfusion and requires prompt intervention to prevent end-organ damage.