A Patient Who Has a Radial Artery Catheter in Place

Multiple Choice

A patient who has a radial artery catheter in place is complaining of numbness and tingling in the fingers.What is the nurse's priority assessment?

A) Is there a palpable pulse?
B) Is blood is easily obtained from the catheter?
C) Does the patient have a fever?
D) Does the waveform have a characteristic appearance?