Procedural Guidance Step 1, Part 3 Pericardiocentesis 1. What is the preferred location for draining pericardial fluid?* A. No preferred, wherever the fluid is closest to the skin and largest amount as to avoid injury to vital organs B. Always must be done subxiphoid/subcostal C. Always must be done at the apical view D. Must be done with ECG monitoring electrodes on tapping needle 2. What structure can you use to differentiate between a pericardial effusion and a left pleural effusion?* A. Pericardium B. Pleural line C. Descending aorta D. Lung line 3. T or F: Evaluation of the pericardium is part of the FAST evaluation:* A. True B. False 4. To differentiate between pericardial effusion and epicardial fat pad, you can use the following except:* A. Fat pad moves with the epicardium each heartbeat B. Pericardial effusion is usually more hypoechoic or anechoic C. Fat pad is seen mostly posteriorly D. Fat pad is usually a granular appearance 5. When a pericardial effusion is present, what is the next most important step for the ICU physician?* A. Obtain equipment to perform pericardiocentesis B. Obtain views to assess LV function C. Obtain views to assess for tamponade physiology (RV diastolic collapse) D. Call the on call cardiologist
