Author Question: When caring for the patient with a pulmonary artery (PA) pressure catheter, the nurse observes that ... (Read 139 times)

kellyjaisingh · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

When caring for the patient with a pulmonary artery (PA) pressure catheter, the nurse observes that the PA waveform indicates that the catheter is in the wedged position. Which action should the nurse take next?

a. Zero balance the transducer.
b. Activate the fast flush system.
c. Notify the health care provider.
d. Deflate and reinflate the PA balloon.

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a patient receiving a continuous norepinephrine (Levophed) IV infusion. Which patient assessment finding indicates that the infusion rate may need to be adjusted?

a. Heart rate is 58 beats/minute.
b. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) is 56 mm Hg.
c. Systemic vascular resistance (SVR) is elevated.
d. Pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) is low.

diesoon · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
When the catheter is in the wedge position, blood flow past the catheter is obstructed, placing the patient at risk for pulmonary infarction. A health care provider or advanced practice nurse should be called to reposition the catheter. The other actions will not correct the wedging of the PA catheter.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Vasoconstrictors such as norepinephrine (Levophed) will increase SVR, and this will increase the work of the heart and decrease peripheral perfusion. The infusion rate may need to be decreased. Bradycardia, hypotension (MAP of 56 mm Hg), and low PAWP are not associated with norepinephrine infusion.