Question

The nurse is educating a patients family member about a pulmonary artery catheter (PAC). Which statement by the family member best indicates understanding of the purpose of the PAC?

a) Slight tenderness at the insertion site
b) Mild swelling at the insertion site
c) Rapidly increasing respiratory rate and chest pain
d) Mild redness at the insertion site

Answer 1

A Pulmonary Artery Catheter (PAC) is used to monitor pressures in the heart and lungs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of a Pulmonary Artery Catheter (PAC) is to monitor pressures in the heart and lungs. The catheter is threaded into the pulmonary artery, and it allows healthcare workers to measure the oxygen levels, pressure, and other important parameters in the heart and lungs. It helps in the diagnosis and management of various conditions, such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension.