Radial arterial lines

Abstract

Intra-arterial cannulae in the radial artery are used for invasive arterial blood pressure (IABP) measurement and for collection of blood for analysis. The radial artery is the preferred site for insertion because of low complication rates. Arterial lines are the gold standard for accurate blood pressure (BP) measurement. They may be used in intensive care units (ICU) and high dependency units and in anaesthetized patients undergoing surgical procedures. An understanding of basic principles enables arterial lines to be used safely in these settings.

The Development of a Validated Checklist for Radial Arterial Line Placement

“…One article had a companion video to demonstrate the procedural steps but provided no specific checklist, 2 while 4 other articles described the procedure in paragraph form. [7][8][9][10] Multiple articles were found that pertained to radial arterial line insertion used for cardiac catheterization. Cohen and Alfonso 15 describe a radial arterial line placement curriculum within the context of radial access for cardiac catheterization.…”

“…One article had a companion video to demonstrate the procedural steps but provided no specific checklist, 2 while 4 other articles described the procedure in paragraph form. 7-10…”

“…Five articles detailed the steps of the procedure in paragraph form; however, they did not identify a validation process. 2,[7][8][9][10] The results of the first step of the validation process for the development of a checklist for teaching and assessing radial arterial line insertion are described.…”