Overdamped Arterial Waveform — FRCA Primary MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: D — Underestimation of systolic and overestimation of diastolic with loss of dicrotic notch
Overdamped system: underestimates systolic / overestimates diastolic / slurred upstroke / loss of dicrotic notch. Mean pressure remains relatively accurate. Causes: air bubbles / clots / compliant tubing / excessive tubing length. Square wave test shows slow return with no oscillation.
Reference: Al-Shaikh Stacey 2019 Essentials of Anaesthetic Equipment