Final answer:
When assisting with the insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter, a nurse must gather equipment, prepare a sterile field, monitor vital signs, provide patient information and consent, and assist the clinician with the procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
When preparing to assist with the insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter, also known as a Swan-Ganz catheter, various nursing actions are required to ensure patient safety and procedural efficacy. Initially, it is vital to ensure all necessary equipment is gathered, including the catheter, sterile drapes, gloves, surgical gown, masks, and appropriate insertion kits. The patient should be positioned appropriately, and continuous cardiac monitoring must be established to detect any potential arrhythmias during the procedure. The nurse must also establish a sterile field to minimize infection risks and assist in applying local anesthetic before the procedure if required.
The information provided about the blood pressure cuff and the procedure for measuring blood pressure is related to the nurse's role in monitoring vital signs, which is another critical aspect to consider before, during, and after the insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter. It is important to monitor the patient’s blood pressure as fluctuations might occur due to the procedure. Lastly, the nurse must ensure that the patient is informed about the procedure, obtains the required consent, and is available to assist the physician as needed throughout the insertion process.
By following these steps and closely monitoring the patient, the nurse can provide vital support in the preparation, execution, and post-procedural care associated with the placement of a pulmonary artery catheter.