Catheterization and Vascular Access

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to catheterization, vascular access methods, hemodynamic monitoring, and intra-aortic balloon pumps, essential for understanding cardiac care.

Arterial Lines (Art-lines, A-lines)

Gold standard for continuous blood pressure monitoring.

Central Venous Catheters (CVC)

Essential for volume status assessment and medication delivery.

Peripheral Inserted Central Catheter (PICC Lines)

Used for long-term therapy without the need for repeated venipuncture.

Pulmonary Artery Catheter (PAC)

Provides advanced hemodynamic monitoring for complex cardiovascular cases.

Blood Sampling

Enables frequent arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis without repeated sticks.

Normal Systolic Blood Pressure

90-140 mmHg, average 120 mmHg.

Normal Diastolic Blood Pressure

60-90 mmHg, average 80 mmHg.

Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP)

Normal range is 70-100 mmHg, average 93.3 mmHg.

Dynamic Response Testing

Shows immediate effects of interventions on blood pressure.

Modified Allen's Test

A test required before radial artery catheterization to ensure collateral flow.

Dicrotic Notch

The notch in the arterial pressure wave that corresponds to aortic valve closure.

Over-dampened Waveform

Caused by air bubbles, kinks, or clots in the arterial line.

Central Venous Pressure (CVP)

Normal range is 2-6 mmHg, indicating right heart function.

Pulmonary Artery Wedge Pressure (PAWP)

Normal range is 4-12 mmHg, evaluated for left heart function.

Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP)

A mechanical circulatory support device that reduces left ventricular workload.

PICC Line

Lengths range from 40-60 cm, used for long-term IV therapy with reduced complications.

Contraindications for Catheter Placement

Local infection, severe coagulopathy, active bacteremia, or patient refusal.

Safety Protocols in Catheterization

Include maximum barrier precautions and infection prevention measures.

Complications of IABP

May include aortic dissection, catheter passage difficulties, and thrombosis formation.

Heart Rate Impact on IABP Timing

HR >120 bpm may require reduction of augmentation ratio in IABP function.

Hemodynamic Pressure Interpretation

Evaluates right heart, pulmonary circulation, and left heart function.