CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What physiological function does the Swan-Ganz catheter measure?

1. Peripheral blood pressure

2. Heart's function and blood flow pressures

3. Body temperature

4. Pulmonary oxygenation levels

The correct answer is: Heart's function and blood flow pressures

The Swan-Ganz catheter, also known as a pulmonary artery catheter, is specifically designed to assess various aspects of cardiovascular function. It measures hemodynamic parameters by being inserted into the right side of the heart and into the pulmonary artery. The primary physiological functions it evaluates include cardiac output, which indicates how well the heart is functioning in terms of pumping blood throughout the body, as well as pressures within the heart chambers and the pulmonary artery. This information is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions like heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases. The Swan-Ganz catheter allows for the direct measurement of the pulmonary artery wedge pressure, which reflects the left atrial pressure and provides insight into left ventricular function. It is also capable of monitoring systemic vascular resistance and transpulmonary gradients, further informing clinical decisions regarding fluid management and the treatment of shock. This assessment of the heart's function and the various blood flow pressures captures the comprehensive role of the Swan-Ganz catheter in clinical settings, directly aligning with the physiological aspect being evaluated. Other options do not pertain to the specific capabilities of the Swan-Ganz catheter; for example, peripheral blood pressure measurements focus solely on blood pressure readings rather than the comprehensive cardiovascular insights provided by the Swan-Ganz. Likewise, body