Following insertion of a central venous catheter,the nurse obtains a stat chest x-ray film to verify proper catheter placement.The radiologist reports to the nurse: "The tip of the catheter is located in the superior vena cava." What is the best interpretation of these results by the nurse?
A) The catheter is not positioned correctly and should be removed.
B) The catheter position increases the risk of ventricular dysrhythmias.
C) The distal tip of the catheter is in the appropriate position.
D) The physician should be called to advance the catheter into the pulmonary artery.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

X-ray results indicate proper position of the catheter.The tip of the central venous catheter should rest just above the right atrium in the superior vena cava.The central venous catheter is positioned correctly in the superior vena cava.Dysrhythmias occur if the catheter migrates to the right ventricle.Central venous catheters are placed into great vessels of the venous system and not advanced into the pulmonary artery.

Following Insertion of a Central Venous Catheter,the Nurse Obtains a Stat