Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

At what approximate mark is the PA catheter entered when floating it?

1. 30 cm mark

2. 40 cm mark

3. 50 cm mark

4. 60 cm mark

The correct answer is: 40 cm mark

The pulmonary artery (PA) catheter is typically floated into position through the right atrium and right ventricle into the pulmonary artery, and the insertion depth can vary slightly depending on the patient's anatomy. However, a common guideline for insertion is around the 40 cm mark when the catheter is being floated in adults. This depth is chosen because, on average, this measurement correlates with reaching the right atrium and the subsequent passage through the right ventricle into the pulmonary artery. While the actual depth may vary based on individual patient factors such as body habitus and specific anatomy, the 40 cm mark serves as a standard reference point for most adult patients. It's important for practitioners to use their clinical judgment and knowledge of individual patient characteristics while performing this procedure. Understanding this standard helps ensure that the catheter is positioned correctly without risking complications that can arise from being too shallow or too deep.