Please note that these guidelines are currently under review and will be updated in due course
Summary
Using an in dwelling arterial line is the method of choice for frequent blood analysis in adult critical care areas. 0.9% (normal͛) sodium chloride solution is the recommended flush solution for maintaining the patency of arterial catheters. The unintentional use of a glucose-containing solution for flushing results in artefactually high glucose concentration has led to insulin administration causing hypoglycaemia and fatal brain injury.
This guideline makes recommendations on:
- Arterial pressure monitoring and sampling systems and techniques
- The prescription checking and administration of arterial line infusions
- Glucose monitoring and insulin administration