Change the dressing and apply new disinfectant every day. Keep the catheter in place as short a time as possible, preferably less than 3 days. Place the transducer on a pole at about the level of the patient's mid-axillary line. Connect the cable from the pressure cassette of the monitor to the wires from the transducer and turn on the monitor. Calibrate the system by following the manufacturer's instructions.
Complications appear to be independent of operators.
Multiple punctures, prolonged catheterization and low cardiac output all increase the rate of complications. Recanalization of the artery usually takes place. Infection remains the most common and severe problem and underlines the importance of good asepsis. Our own nurses were extremely proud of their new capabilities. Our doctors are comfortable with the technique and our patients, we believe, receive better care.