umbilical artery catheter
A thin tube inserted into one of the umbilical arteries for blood sampling and blood pressure monitoring in critically ill newborns.
Full Definition
An umbilical artery catheter (UAC) is a specialized vascular access device inserted through the umbilical cord into one of the two umbilical arteries. This procedure is typically performed in critically ill newborns, particularly premature infants, within the first few days of life while the umbilical vessels remain patent. The UAC allows for continuous arterial blood pressure monitoring, frequent blood sampling for laboratory studies, and arterial blood gas analysis without repeated needle sticks. Proper positioning is confirmed by X-ray, and the catheter tip should be placed either in the high position (T6-T10) or low position (L3-L5) to avoid major vessel origins.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as UAC; always document catheter position (high or low) and tip location on X-ray.
In Context
- "The umbilical artery catheter was placed for continuous blood pressure monitoring in the critically ill preterm infant." — Procedure note
- "Daily assessment of the umbilical artery catheter site revealed no signs of infection or vascular compromise." — Daily progress note