In: Nursing
What is the value of monitoring pulmonary artery pressure in the ventilated patient? What factors would create unreliable results?
Pulmonary blood pressure reflects the pressure the heart exerts
to pump blood from the heart through the arteries of the
lungs.
Normal pulmonary artery pressure is 8-20 mm Hg at rest. If the
pressure in the pulmonary artery is greater than 25 mm Hg at rest
or 30 mmHg during physical activity, it is abnormally high and is
called pulmonary hypertension.
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is defined as an increase in mean
pulmonary arterial pressure (P̄pa) ≥25 mmHg at rest on right heart
catheterisation (RHC).
Factors that create unreliable results-
While pulmonary hypertension has no cure, you can live an active,
fulfilling life by working with your doctor to manage your
symptoms. Talk to your doctor before taking over-the-counter
medicine, as some can worsen symptoms of pulmonary hypertension or
interfere with prescriptions and keep a list of medicines with you.
Ask whether you should get a pneumonia vaccination or flu shot.
Additionally, pregnancy can pose serious risks for women with
pulmonary hypertension, so be sure to discuss birth control options
with your physician.