How to Perform the Three-Point Localization Technique for Radial Artery Puncture?

How to perform the radial artery puncture three-point localization method? Many patients with such diseases would like to know more about radial artery puncture. Performing puncture can help patients recover faster, so having an appropriate understanding is very helpful for patients. Additionally, patients should also know how to take care of themselves after surgery to avoid any adverse effects on their bodies. So, how do you perform the radial artery puncture three-point localization method?

1. Steps for Radial Artery Puncture Three-Point Localization Method

Radial artery puncture is generally used for observing vital signs during surgical anesthesia and belongs to the category of invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring. When performing radial artery puncture, the puncture point is usually located 2 cm above the wrist joint on the palm side of the forearm, where the arterial pulse is most prominent.

The radial artery puncture three-point localization method involves the following steps:

1. Ask the patient to dorsiflex their wrist and straighten their hand to maximize the exposure of the radial artery.

2. Use the index and middle fingers of the left hand to locate the point where the pulse is most prominent and use the index finger to feel the strongest point of the radial artery pulse.

3. After determining the location, move the index finger away and slowly insert the puncture needle into the radial artery at a 45-degree angle. Once bright red blood is seen and a throbbing sensation is felt in the needle, it indicates a successful puncture.

2. Indications for Radial Artery Puncture

Indications for radial artery puncture include the need for repeated blood sampling for blood gas analysis, blood ammonia, and lactate monitoring. This method can also be used to obtain large amounts of blood samples when blood collection is difficult. It is also indicated for patients who require accurate monitoring of arterial blood pressure.

3. Contraindications for Radial Artery Puncture

Contraindications for radial artery puncture include a positive Allen's test, local infection or trauma, a hypercoagulable state, a tendency to bleed, or during anticoagulant therapy.

4. Preparation

Prepare all necessary items and medications, including a 2ml glass syringe, a 5 or 7 gauge needle, disinfectant materials (iodine and alcohol swabs), and local anesthetic if necessary. Place the patient's wrist on a cloth roll or sandbag with the palm facing up. Strictly disinfect the blood sampling site and the operator's finger used to palpate the artery with iodine and alcohol.

5. Precautions

Properly fixing the blood sampling site is crucial for successful blood collection. For neonates or cooperative patients, one person can perform the procedure, but for others, an assistant may be needed to support the wrist without compressing the artery. When collecting blood for blood gas analysis, minimize the amount of air that enters the syringe. If a small amount of air enters, expel it immediately after removing the needle. Observe the patient carefully to detect any complications such as vasospasm, thrombosis, or large hematoma.