Arterial catheters: indications, insertion and use in critical care.

This article provides an overview of arterial catheters and their use within critical care. The indications for arterial catheterization are presented and the insertion techniques are discussed. The nursing care of patients with an arterial catheter is explained, with a focus on safety, haemodynamic monitoring and arterial blood sampling. The procedure for removal of an arterial catheter is described in a step-by-step guide. Post-procedure care and complications are also discussed and evidence-based strategies for the prevention of complications are suggested.