Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) Practice Test

The blue proximal port of the Swan-Ganz catheter is typically located approximately 30 cm from the distal tip of the catheter. Understanding this distance is crucial for healthcare professionals as it helps in accurately positioning the catheter for hemodynamic monitoring and ensuring correct readings of pressures in the heart and pulmonary artery.

The access and functionality of the Swan catheter are defined by its design, where the distal tip is intended for pulmonary artery pressure measurement. Meanwhile, the proximal port is used for the infusion of fluids and for obtaining central venous pressure readings. The specific distance, such as 30 cm, is designed to provide effective access to these functions and ensure that the ports are positioned appropriately within the anatomical structures they are meant to evaluate or interact with.

This knowledge is essential for proper catheter placement, as incorrect positioning can lead to misinterpretation of hemodynamic data or complications related to catheter use.