Which is an indication for using pulmonary artery monitoring?

a. Staph infection
b. Melanoma
c. Renal failure
d. Diabetes mellitus

ANS: C
Indications for pulmonary artery monitoring include preexisting cardiac or pulmonary disease in a patient undergoing a major vascular, intraabdominal, or neurosurgical procedure, and a potential risk of development of cardiopulmonary instability from the stress of the surgical procedure. Other conditions may include shock, burns with large fluid shifts, renal failure with low CO, or pulmonary emboli. Pulmonary artery catheters may be used in patients who require long-term monitoring.