British journal of hospital medicine
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The use of arterial lines is now common in the care of critically ill patients. Intra-arterial cannulation with continuous blood pressure transduction and display remains the accepted standard for comprehensive arterial blood pressure monitoring. This article will illustrate a technique for percutaneous radial artery cannulation as well as outlining the indications, contraindications and possible complications of arterial cannulation.
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Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which is associated with high morbidity and mortality, is a more common neuropsychiatric sequela of alcohol misuse than is widely realized. It is easily prevented and treated with parenteral B-complex vitamins, although this treatment is widely under-utilized.
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This article outlines a safe and successful technique of inserting the pulmonary artery catheter. Readers should regard it as a supplement, not a substitute, to bedside instruction by an experienced and competent clinician.