Hemodynamic Readings

Janet Barclay · Jul 18, 2001

Hi Phantom,

Sorry, no short cuts for PA catheters, but think of all the numbers in terms of preload (cvp and wedge), afterload (svri and pvri) and contractility. Look at your numbers, is the preload low, high or normal (remember starling's curve and that we usually would run our patients at the high end of volume loading if they can tolerate it0 and decide if they would benefit from some volume. Then look at afterload and decide if pressors are what the patient needs ( or vasodilators) also remembering that you need to fill the tank or the dop or levo won't be as effective. then look at the CI, does the patient need some kickstarting as far as their pump is working.

A fellow named Mark Hammerschmidt (I think) has set up a series of on line education things and I'm sure that swans are in there. Look for one of his posts and check it out!

Hope this has been helpful and not just long winded:)

PatriceM · Jul 21, 2001

Well, a rather large topic. I suggest you go to the aacn.org website. (American Assoc. of Critical Care nurses). Actually, if you are really interested, I suggest you join. Great association and great resource. I could go on and on about the correct way to measure waveforms (printout vs. readout) But, better than that is the source.

Best wishe.:)

PatriceM · Jul 21, 2001

Well, a rather large topic. I suggest you go to the aacn.org website. (American Assoc. of Critical Care nurses). Actually, if you are really interested, I suggest you join. Great association and great resource. I could go on and on about the correct way to measure waveforms (printout vs. readout) But, better than that is the source.

Best wishes.:)

prn nurse · Aug 17, 2001

Marks site is listed under the MICU site....It is awesome!! I am sharing it with all my co-worker's. They love it too...everything you ever wanted to know about icu stuff...and free !! so get it there or........ http://www.geocities.com/markhammerschmidt/

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