What is a contraindication for arterial catheter placement?

The presence of inadequate collateral circulation is a significant contraindication for arterial catheter placement because it increases the risk of ischemia and potential damage to the affected limb. When performing arterial access, it is critical that there are adequate collateral vessels to ensure that if the primary artery is occluded or compromised during or after the procedure, blood flow can still be maintained through alternate pathways. If collateral circulation is insufficient, the risk of severe complications, such as limb loss or severe necrosis, is heightened, making this a pivotal consideration in the decision-making process for arterial catheterization.

Other factors, while they may raise concerns, do not categorically contraindicate the procedure. Infection at the site, for example, suggests a risk of introducing pathogens but may not preclude arterial access if proper sterilization techniques and precautions are employed. A history of hypertension can inform clinical judgment regarding a patient's vascular state, but it is not an outright contraindication. Similarly, a low platelet count may indicate a bleeding risk, yet it does not automatically preclude arterial catheter placement; it necessitates careful patient selection and monitoring rather than an absolute prohibition.