CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What can a Swan-Ganz catheter be used to monitor apart from central venous pressure?

1. Blood glucose levels

2. Body temperature

3. Wedge pressure and mean arterial pressure

4. Heart rate variability

The correct answer is: Wedge pressure and mean arterial pressure

The Swan-Ganz catheter is a specialized device that is primarily used to monitor various hemodynamic parameters in the cardiovascular system. One of its key functions is to measure pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP), which reflects left atrial pressure, and it can also provide information regarding the patient's fluid status and cardiac function. The mean arterial pressure (MAP) is crucial for assessing perfusion pressure and is often inferred from measurements taken through the Swan-Ganz catheter. The importance of PAWP and MAP in a clinical setting cannot be overstated. Monitoring these parameters helps clinicians make informed decisions regarding fluid management, medication adjustments, and overall patient care, particularly in critically ill patients or those undergoing major surgeries. Other options such as blood glucose levels, body temperature, and heart rate variability fall outside the specific physiological measurements that a Swan-Ganz catheter is designed to monitor. Blood glucose levels typically require a glucometer or other testing devices, while body temperature is assessed with thermometers. Heart rate variability usually involves different electrocardiogram (ECG) methods or heart rate monitoring technology. Therefore, among the choices provided, monitoring wedge pressure and mean arterial pressure is the most relevant application for the Swan-Ganz catheter.