Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

In which scenario would the Seldinger technique typically be utilized?

1. For intubating patients

2. For placing central lines

3. For administering anesthetics

4. For monitoring vital signs

The correct answer is: For placing central lines

The Seldinger technique is a well-established method primarily used for gaining access to the vascular system, specifically for the placement of central lines. This technique involves inserting a thin catheter through a hollow needle into a blood vessel, then guiding a larger catheter over a wire into position. It provides a safe and effective means for accessing deeper vessels, which is essential in critical situations where intravenous access is necessary for fluid administration, medication delivery, or monitoring hemodynamics. In contrast, intubating patients involves securing an airway via endotracheal tubes and does not pertain to vascular access. Administering anesthetics is a broader practice that may involve various routes of administration, including intravenous or inhalational methods, but does not typically utilize the Seldinger technique. Monitoring vital signs involves non-invasive or minimal invasive methods such as blood pressure cuffs and pulse oximetry, which again does not relate to the Seldinger approach for vascular access. Thus, the placement of central lines is the prime scenario for the application of this technique.