Question

The intensive care unit (ICU) charge nurse will determine that teaching about hemodynamic monitoring for a new staff nurse has been effective when the new nurse

A) Positions the zero-reference stopcock line level with the phlebostatic axis.
B) Balances and calibrates the hemodynamic monitoring equipment every hour.
C) Rechecks the location of the phlebostatic axis when changing the patient's position.
D) Ensures that the patient is lying supine with the head of the bed flat for all readings.

Answer 1

Effective teaching about hemodynamic monitoring is demonstrated when the new nurse correctly positions the zero-reference stopcock line. The correct answer is option A).

Step-by-step explanation:

The intensive care unit (ICU) charge nurse will determine that teaching about hemodynamic monitoring for a new staff nurse has been effective when the new nurse positions the zero-reference stopcock line level with the phlebostatic axis. The phlebostatic axis is located at the fourth intercostal space at the mid-chest level.

Which is the correct anatomical reference point for calibrating pressure monitoring devices. This ensures that pressure readings are accurate relative to the heart regardless of the patient's position. It is also important for the new nurse to recheck the location of the phlebostatic axis.

Although it is crucial to keep the equipment balanced and calibrated, this doesn't necessarily happen every hour, and making sure the patient is lying flat is not needed for all readings since the essential factor is the position relative to the phlebostatic axis.