Anaes SAQs · Invasive monitoring
The arterial line — technique, indications and waveform
The arterial line SAQ — the radial cannulation (Seldinger), the transducer zeroing and levelling, the indications (major surgery, vasoactives, instability), and the waveform morphology (pulsus paradoxus, alternans, the slow rise).
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Prompt
Describe the technique of arterial line insertion, the indications for its use, and the information that can be derived from the arterial waveform.
Question
Describe the technique of arterial line insertion, the indications for its use, and the information that can be derived from the arterial waveform. (Question stem restated — the worked answers below carry the primary-source citations.)
References2ShowHide
- [2]Lischker S, et al. Accuracy and precision of continuous, non-invasive blood pressure devices: a systematic review and meta-analyses. Anaesthesia, 2026.PMID 42290528
- [3]Kane AD, et al. Continuous ARterial monitoring in Elderly and Frail patients for hip fractUre surgery to prevent Low blood pressure - the CAREFUL Study Protocol. Anaesthesia Reports, 2026.PMID 41971679