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from Section 5.2 - Practical Cardiovascular System
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 27 July 2023
Key Learning Points
1. Arterial lines offer beat-by-beat monitoring of a patient’s blood pressure and allow for repeated arterial sampling – must-haves in critical care and major operative settings.
2. Careful consideration of the insertion site is necessary, especially when radial puncture is not available. The use of end-arteries could result in limb ischaemia in the event of complications.
3. The Allen’s test is a simple and timely test for gross perfusion prior to arterial puncture; however, it is not without its shortcomings. Doppler ultrasound may be more effective, especially in anaesthetised patients.
4. There are several different techniques for arterial line insertion; however, the catheter-over-wire (Seldinger) technique is regarded as the safest.
5. A well-inserted and cared-for arterial line can remain in situ for several weeks, if required. Infection rates are lower than those of either peripheral or central venous catheters.
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