Question

Which of the following statements best explains the rationale for placing the client in Trendelenburg position during the insertion of a central line catheter?

It will facilitate catheter insertion.
It will make the client more comfortable during the insertion.
It will prevent the occurrence of ventricular tachycardia.
It will prevent the development of pulmonary embolus.

Answer 1

The Trendelenburg position helps facilitate central line catheter insertion by distending the central veins due to increased venous return, providing easier access and reducing the risk of complications such as vein perforation or air embolism.

Step-by-step explanation:

The rationale for placing a client in the Trendelenburg position during the insertion of a central line catheter is primarily to facilitate catheter insertion. This position involves tilting the patient's bed so the head is lower than the feet, which increases the venous return to the heart and distends the central veins. Consequently, the increased venous diameter provides easier access for catheter insertion and lowers the risk of catheter-related complications such as vein perforation or air embolism.

Furthermore, the Trendelenburg position takes advantage of gravitational forces, similar to how gravity affects pulmonary perfusion and blood distribution within the lungs. In the context of central line placement, this position helps to prevent air from entering the venous system during catheter insertion, which can drastically reduce the risk of serious complications like a pulmonary embolus. However, it does not directly make the client more comfortable nor prevent ventricular tachycardia.