: Usually due to excessive tubing length or small-bore catheters. Fix : Shorten tubing or remove unnecessary stopcocks. 🩺 Clinical & Anatomical Fixes
Troubleshooting a failed arterial line (A-line) requires a systematic approach to identify whether the issue is mechanical, anatomical, or clinical. When a line "fails," it typically manifests as a loss of waveform, inability to flush, or inaccurate pressure readings. 🛠️ Mechanical Troubleshooting
: Re-level the transducer at the phlebostatic axis (4th intercostal space, mid-axillary line) and re-zero to atmospheric pressure. 📉 Waveform Issues
: If the radial line is positional, try extending the wrist slightly with a roll of gauze or an arm board.
: If blood cannot be aspirated, a thrombus may be present. Use ultrasound with Doppler to visualize flow around the catheter tip.
The shape of the waveform provides clues to the specific failure mode.