Setting up for an arterial line is a simple but important skill for anaesthetic nurses. If you’re starting out, ask your nurse buddies to show you their art line hacks. There are many different brands of transducer sets and each have their own little quirks! π©Έπ
3οΈβ£ Transducer set & labels
4οΈβ£ Transducer holder
6οΈβ£ Cannulation equipment
π Cannula, swab, dressing, local anaesthetic, gloves
π Something to position the wrist (bolster and tape)
7οΈβ£ Ultrasound machine if difficult
Then, set it up by following the 4 Ps:
π Place saline bag inside pressure bag, hang it on an IV pole
π Attach the transducer holder and insert the transducer
π Pressurise saline bag to 300mmHg and close pressure bag switch to prevent deflation
π Spike the saline bag with the transducer set & allow line to prime completely
3οΈβ£ Purge connections
πThere are usually two “3-way” connections. These contain air and should be flushed
π To purge with saline, close the 3-way tap to the patient (which opens it to the pressure line) and activate the “flush valve” so saline flows through.
π Now you should be able to inspect the entire line and ensure there are no bubbles present.
π The pressure transducer relies on an accurate “atmospheric” pressure to use as a “zero”.
π Zeroing can be performed before or after connecting to the patient, however, it MUST be done prior to observing a blood pressure reading. To zero, turn the transducer switch so that it is “off to the patient and open to air” and press the “zero” button on the monitor.
π The transducer should be at the same height as the right atrium (the arm pit is a good reference). In a true “beach chair” position, it may be applied at the level of the ear to measure brain perfusion.
Remember to attach & complete labels according to your hospital guidelines and document appropriately. β
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Build knowledgeβ
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Ref: https://coreem.net/procedures/how-to-set-up-an-arterial-line/
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