Which device is used to monitor continuous BP and allow frequent blood sampling?

• A. Arterial line
• B. Central venous catheter
• C. Ventilator
• D. Sequential Compression Device

Answer: (A)

An arterial line provides direct access to an artery, allowing continuous monitoring of arterial blood pressure through a connected transducer. This setup gives beat-to-beat BP readings and enables frequent arterial blood sampling without repeated needle sticks, which is essential in unstable or critically ill patients and during procedures.

A central venous catheter sits in a vein and is used to measure central venous pressure and administer medications or fluids, but it does not provide accurate continuous arterial BP monitoring, and arterial sampling is not its primary function. A ventilator supports respiration, not blood pressure monitoring. A sequential compression device helps prevent blood clots and edema, not monitor BP or obtain blood samples.