1. Hemodynamics
Is defined as the study of the forces involved in blood circulation.
Hemodynamic monitoring is used to assess cardiovascular function in the critically ill or unstable client
It is indicated when standard vital signs measurements are not adequate to evaluate changes in cardiovascular status.

2. Purpose
The main goals of invasive hemodynamic monitoring are to evaluate cardiac function, the condition of the circulatory system, and the clients response to interventions
Provide additional information which establishes or expands a given diagnosis
Provides a physiological rationale for a selected therapy
Allows a rapid determination of the response to therapy or suggest a change in the response

3. Types Intrarterial Blood Pressure Monitoring
Central Venous Pressure Monitoring
Pulmonary Artery Pressure Monitoring
The hemodynamic pressures include heart rate, arterial blood pressure, central blood pressure, pulmonary pressures, and cardiac output

4. Direct versus Derived Parameters
Direct hemodynamic parameters are obtained straight from the monitoring device for example the heart rate, and various pressures such as arterial and venous pressures
Derived hemodynamic pressures are calculated using the direct hemodynamic data; they include such measurements such as cardiac index, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and stroke volume (SV)

5. Hemodynamic Monitoring Systems
Measure the pressures within the vessel and converts this signal into an electrical waveform that is amplified and displayed
The electrical signal may be graphically recorded on pressure graph paper and displayed numerically on the monitor
System components include an invasive catheter threaded into artery or vein connected to a transducer by stiff high-pressure tubing

6. Hemodynamic Monitoring Systems
The pressure transducer translates pressure measurements into an electrical signal that is in turn relayed to the monitor
Additional components include stopcocks and a continuous flush system with heparinized saline and an infusion pressure bag to keep clots from forming in the catheter

7. Leveling the Transducer
Is important to ensure accurate readings
The point used as a constant reference is the level of the right atrium
It is located by intersecting two imaginary lines: one drawn down the lateral chest wall from the clients 4th intercostal space, the other line is mid chest level (the midaxillary line)
Once located, this junction is marked with ink or tape and used consistently for pressure readings