How long should wedge pressures not exceed during measurement?

Wedge pressures, also known as pulmonary capillary wedge pressures (PCWP), are an important measurement in critical care, particularly for assessing left atrial pressure and fluid status in patients with heart failure or pulmonary issues. During the measurement of wedge pressures, the recommended duration for inflation should not exceed 15 seconds.

This time limit is crucial because prolonged inflation can lead to complications such as pulmonary artery injury, ischemia, or trauma to lung tissues. Keeping the wedge inflation to a maximum of 15 seconds helps ensure that accurate readings can be obtained while minimizing the risks associated with excessive pressure in the pulmonary circulation. This 15-second guideline is well-accepted in clinical practice as a balance between obtaining necessary hemodynamic data and ensuring patient safety.