Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

What can be done to prevent complications during PA catheter insertion?

1. Use of local anesthetic only

2. Proper positioning and monitoring

3. Insertion by inexperienced personnel

4. Using larger catheters

The correct answer is: Proper positioning and monitoring

Proper positioning and monitoring are essential steps in preventing complications during PA catheter insertion. When the patient is positioned correctly, typically in a supine or slight Trendelenburg position, it helps facilitate access to the appropriate venous structures and decreases the likelihood of anatomical complications. Continuous monitoring during the procedure ensures any adverse reactions or complications can be promptly recognized and addressed. This not only enhances patient safety but also contributes to a smoother procedure by allowing for immediate response to any sudden changes. The other choices do not effectively contribute to the prevention of complications. For instance, the use of local anesthetic alone does not address the potential for positional errors or the physiological responses that may arise during catheter placement. Inexperienced personnel performing the insertion increases the risk of complications due to a lack of familiarity with the procedure and anatomy. Lastly, using larger catheters does not inherently reduce the risks associated with insertion; in fact, larger catheters can introduce their own complications, such as vascular trauma or increased infection risk. Thus, proper positioning and monitoring stand out as the most critical preventative measures.