Random Question

[cd365c]

Do nurses enter pulmonary artery catheters (with doctor order), or do they just monitor them?

[MrsICURN14]

No!! MDs float PA caths. A nurse should never ever attempt to do that.

We just manage them.

[psu_213, BSN, RN]

Why do you ask? (just wondering :))

[cd365c]

I asked this because I am learning about critical care stuff. I didn't really have any idea.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Inserting central lines is outside the scope of nursing practice. However, it can also be done by Nurse Practioners and Physician Assistants if they have been credentialed to do so by the Medical staff.

But Nurses are responsible for maintaining them. With PA lines, this includes monitoring the waveform to ensure correct placement (they can migrate), connecting infusion fluids to the ports, measuring PA pressures, cardiac output and cardiac indices, caring for the insertion site. Nurses are also responsible for maintaining specific hemodynamic parameters by titrating vaso-active drips to manipulate vascular resistance &/or adjusting infusion rates to compensate for intravascular volume changes.

Critical Care nurses may assist with insertion and removal of these lines. Insertion is done under sterile conditions - in some facilities, they only do it in a procedure room or OR but it can be done at the bedside with proper set up and procedures. Don't worry - prior to assuming this level of responsibility, Critical Care nurses are provided with training & support to ensure their competency.

Don't ever be discouraged about asking questions. . . we're here for you.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

good that you asked. Only way to learn. Keep asking!