The nurse is caring for a mechanically ventilated patient being monitored with a left radial arterial line.During the inspiratory phase of ventilation,the nurse assesses a 20 mm Hg decrease in arterial blood pressure.What is the best interpretation of this finding by the nurse?
A) The mechanical ventilator is malfunctioning.
B) The patient may require fluid resuscitation.
C) The arterial line may need to be replaced.
D) The left limb may have reduced perfusion.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The increase in thoracic pressure that occurs during the inspiration phase of positive pressure ventilation decreases venous return,decreasing systolic blood pressure.
A systolic blood pressure variation or decrease of more than 10 mm Hg in a mechanically ventilated patient is indicative of a patient who would respond to fluid resuscitation and improve tissue perfusion.There is no evidence to indicate the ventilator is malfunctioning,the arterial line needs to be replaced,or that the left limb may have reduced perfusion.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Mechanically Ventilated Patient Being