Accidental Infusion/Medication into Arterial Line

[ImDenise]

Can someone please explain and if possible cite references that explain all risks and outcomes of accidental infusion and medication administration into an artery. I understand fully about the risk of spasm of the artery and have concerns about micro-embolism as well but do not understand any other risks and/or complications and can not find reference information. This was not a peripheral artery but a central artery so spasm resulting in limb loss is not an issue. I would appreciate any input but really want reference information. I want to do an educational inservice in our unit. Thank you.

[TakeTwoAspirin, MSN, RN, APRN]

The risks and outcomes would depend on exactly what you infuse! The reason you can't find much research is probably that you're not being specific enough.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

well, not everything should have a direct line to the heart for one thing.

Also, there is the big chance for air embolus.

[ImDenise]

I am simply looking for cited information regarding the subject. We have all been taught it is wrong but I need to find documentation as to exactly why. Thank you.

[ImDenise]

I appreciate information about a peripheral arterial line but I am specifically looking for information on centrally placed catheters that are arterial inadvertently and used. Thank you.

[noahsmama]

Here's a review article that may be useful:

http://www.mayoclinicproceedings.com/content/80/6/783.abstract?ijkey=51806ce63b8c1438a6726c0a955809625d25e19a&keytype2=tf_ipsecsha

Since arteries move blood away from the heart, it seems to me that a medication injected into an artery, even a central one, would quickly travel into smaller and smaller blood vessels and eventually capillaries -- and the concentration might still be significant by the time you get to the small blood vessels. According to the article above, some medications can cause necrosis when injected into arteries.

Good luck with your in-service!