Which of the following is a potential complication of invasive pressure monitoring?

Choice A rationale Invasive pressure monitoring, such as an arterial line, does not directly cause a decreased heart rate. Bradycardia can be caused by various physiological factors but is not a typical complication of the monitoring device itself. The primary risks are localized to the insertion site and the integrity of the vascular system. Choice B rationale Infection at the insertion site is a significant risk with any invasive line. The entry of the catheter into the artery creates a portal for bacteria to enter the bloodstream. The normal range for white blood cell count is 4,500 to 11,000 cells/mm³. Maintaining aseptic technique during insertion and care is crucial to prevent this. Choice C rationale While an infection from the line could lead to an elevated body temperature (fever), an elevated body temperature is a symptom of a systemic response to infection, not a direct complication caused by the monitoring device itself. The primary complication is the local infection at the site, which can then progress to a systemic response. Choice D rationale Invasive pressure monitoring is used to measure blood pressure, not cause an increase. While the pressure waveform may indicate an increase in blood pressure due to a physiological change, the device itself does not cause this. The main risks are related to local trauma, infection, and the potential for emboli or hemorrhage.