arterial blood gas measurements, and continuous blood pressure monitoring Arterial catheterization is possible until approximately week of age Complications Embolization or thrombosis—inferior mesenteric, renal, or iliac arteries Infection Ischemia/infarction from vasospasm Hemorrhage—from dislodgment of catheter or perforation of the vessel wall Arrhythmias—from direct cardiac stimulation if the catheter enters the heart Air embolism FIGURE 130.7 Scalp vein catheterization Equipment 3-0 or 4-0 silk suture on straight or curved needle; antiseptic solution (povidoneiodine); sterile gauze pads; drapes and gloves; hemostats (four pairs), curved nontoothed iris forceps (4 in) or metal dilator and iris scissors; needle holder, sterile scalpel and no 11 or 15 blade; 22-gauge needle; 10-mL syringe filled with normal saline; T-connector (optional); three-way stopcock;