Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Anesthesia Technologist Exam with a comprehensive quiz. Access flashcards, multiple choice questions, and explanations to ensure success on your test!

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What is the approximate total length of a PA catheter?

100 cm
125 cm
150 cm
175 cm

The correct answer is: 150 cm

The total length of a pulmonary artery (PA) catheter is generally around 150 cm. This length is designed to allow for the catheter to reach the right atrium, pass through the right ventricle, and enter the pulmonary artery, where it can provide important hemodynamic measurements. The length is essential for positioning the catheter accurately within the cardiovascular system to ensure that readings such as pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure can be obtained. The sizing of these catheters is based on both the anatomy of the human body and the need for accuracy in these critical measurements. A catheter that is too short may not reach its intended measurement site, which could lead to inaccurate readings and potential complications.