Arterial line blood sampling; preventing hypoglycaemic brain injury | Association of Anaesthetists

Arterial line blood sampling; preventing hypoglycaemic brain injury

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