Final answer:
The most appropriate nursing intervention for discrepancies between an arterial line reading and manual BP cuff measurements is to ensure proper zeroing and leveling of the transducer.
Step-by-step explanation:
If there is a significant discrepancy between the arterial line readings and those obtained with a manual BP cuff, the most appropriate nursing intervention would be to ensure proper zeroing and leveling of the transducer. Zeroing the transducer is essential to ensuring that it accurately reflects the patient's blood pressure by eliminating any atmospheric pressure differences. Additionally, the transducer must be leveled with the patient's phlebostatic axis (at the level of the heart) to ensure accurate readings. Calibrating the manual cuff is also essential but would address issues with the cuff's accuracy, not the arterial line. Removing and reinserting the arterial line is an invasive procedure that should only be considered if there are issues with the line itself and should not be the first step. Increasing the rate of IV fluids would not correct a discrepancy in blood pressure measurement methods and could be harmful if not clinically indicated.
The correct intervention in this case would be C) Ensure proper zeroing and leveling of the transducer. Proper zeroing and leveling ensures that the arterial line accurately reflects the patient's blood pressure. This can be done by checking the zero reference point on the transducer and adjusting it if necessary. Additionally, ensuring that the arterial line is properly leveled in relation to the patient's heart can also improve accuracy.
Calibrating the manual BP cuff (option A) would not directly address the issue with the arterial line, as these are two separate measurement methods. Removing and reinserting the arterial line (option B) should only be done if there are concerns about its placement or if it is malfunctioning. Increasing the rate of IV fluids (option D) would not affect the accuracy of the arterial line measurement.
The correct intervention in this case would be C) Ensure proper zeroing and leveling of the transducer.