Radial aery is cannulated to measure: March 2013 (f)

Ans. B i.e. Blood pressure Aerial cannulation It is a commonly performed procedure in the management of patients who are critically ill. An indwelling aerial catheter allows for continuous blood pressure (BP) monitoring, frequent blood sampling, and aerial blood gas measurement. Aerial catheters can be placed at the bedside and have been found to be relatively safe, with a low incidence of serious complications. Aeries used for catheterization include the radial, ulnar, brachial, axillary, femoral, posterior tibial, and dorsalis pedis. Of these, the radial aery is most commonly used in both adults and children. The radial aery is chosen primarily because of the superficial nature of the vessel and ease of maintenance of the site