Question

The nurse is caring for a client on a mechanical ventilator. The settings on the ventilator have just been changed, and the standing prescription is to draw arterial blood gases 30 minutes after a ventilator change. In anticipation of this blood draw, what intervention should the nurse implement?

Answer 1

The nurse should confirm patient stabilization and viability of the arterial puncture site, follow infection control and sterile techniques, monitor vital signs, and coordinate with respiratory therapists before drawing an arterial blood sample after a change in ventilator settings.

Step-by-step explanation:

In anticipation of the arterial blood draw after a ventilator setting change, the nurse should implement a pre-draw assessment and ensure all materials are prepared. This includes ensuring that the patient is stable, confirming no recent procedures or medications that could interfere with blood gas results, and that the radial artery (or the selected site for arterial puncture) is viable for blood draw. Additionally, the nurse should follow proper infection control protocols, maintain sterile technique during blood draw, and may need to coordinate with respiratory therapists for optimal timing in regards to respiratory cycles of the mechanical ventilator.

The nurse should be prepared to monitor vital signs, specifically the blood pressure and oxygen saturation, as changes in ventilator settings can impact these parameters. After the blood draw, the nurse should also ensure proper labeling and prompt delivery of the sample to the laboratory for accurate and timely analysis of arterial blood gases (ABGs). The results will guide further ventilator management.