What is a Phlebostatic axis?

Definitions. The phlebostatic axis (Figure 1) was defined as the intersection of a vertical line (A) drawn from the fourth intercostal space at the right edge of the sternum with a horizontal line (B) drawn through the midpoint of a line going from the anterior to the posterior aspects of the chest.

How do you level the transducer at the Phlebostatic axis?

Leveling the Transducer

Position the patient supine with the head of the bed between 0 and 60 degrees.
Locate the phlebostatic axis for the supine position (Figure 7) .
Level the air-fluid interface of the transducer to the phlebostatic axis (Figure 7) (Figure 8)

What is the Phlebostatic axis and what is its significance in CVP measurement?

The phlebostatic axis is the reference point for zeroing the hemodynamic monitoring device. This reference point is important because it helps to ensure the accuracy of the various pressure readings.

What is the Phlebostatic axis and where is it?

Phlebostatic axis is regarded as the anatomical point that corresponds to the right atrium and most accurately reflects a patient’s hemodynamic status • Phlebostatic axis is located at the fourth intercostal space at the mid-anterior- posterior diameter of the chest wall. This is the location of the right atrium.

Why does the transducer need to be at the Phlebostatic axis?

If the transducer is positioned above the phlebostatic axis then the pressure applied to the tubing will be lower and will yield falsely low blood pressure readings.

How often do you flush an arterial line?

The arterial administration set delivers a continuous slow flush of 3-4ml per hour; this keeps the line free from clots. It is important that this infusate solution is continuous – it should not be discontinued.

What happens if transducer is too low?

A transducer placed too low in the water will cause water to flow over the top of the transducer creating a rooster tail and creating air bubbles that will travel over the bottom of the transducer.

What is a good CVP?

A normal central venous pressure reading is between 8 to 12 mmHg. This value is altered by volume status and/or venous compliance.