Saturday, April 7, 2007


Saturday April 7, 2007
Bedside procedure tip

While inserting cordis (large bore IV) for purpose of floating pulmonary artery catheter (PAC), it is always advisible to flush it well with normal saline via side port. If it is not flush properly, blood may get clotted on cordis wall and may hinder the free floatation of PAC.

In one instance of anecdotal experience with author, PAC felt stuck inside chest and resistance noted. Presumptive diagnosis of knotting made but STAT CXR showed cordis and swan looped as "C" below clavicle and no knotting noted. With flushing of sideport of cordis, swan floated well and waveforms obtained. Repeat CXR showed appropriate course. (we have CXRs available but decide not to submit to avoid any violation).

(Name of contributor and institution holded on request.)

(Anecdotals described here may not be tested in clinical trials and may solely be only personal experiencs)