1. Cardiac Cath
NUR 422

2. Definition of Cardiac Catherization
Comprehensive term to describe minor surgical procedure for diagnostic evaluation or interventional (therapeutic) purposes
Diagnostic
Collects data to evaluate PT’s condition
Therapeutic
To intervene by mechanical means to treat disorders of the vascular and conduction systems within the heart

3. Indications Suspected or known coronary heart disease
Myodcardial infarction
Sudden cardiovascular death
Valvular heart disease
Congenital heart disease
Aortic dissection
Cardiomyopathy
Initial and follow up assessment for heart transplant

4. Contraindications PT refusal Uncontrolled hypertension Active GI bleed
Bleeding disorders
Pulmonary edema
Uncontrolled ventricular arrhythmias
Aortic valve endocarditiis
Allergic to contrast
Active GI bleed
Renal failure
Recent stroke
Fever from infection
Electrolyte imbalance
Anemia
Short life expectancy
Digitalis intoxication

5. Complications and Risks
Death
Myocardial infarction
CVA
Arrhythmia
Hemorrhage
Contrast
Hemodynamic
Perforation

6. Pre-Catheterization Care
IV started
Sedation and nausea
Nothing to eat 4-6 hours before procedure
Records of procedure
PT hemodynamic data
Medications administered
Supplies used
Other pertinent information

7. Catheter Introduction
Prepare catheter introduction site with aseptic technique
Shaved and cleaned
Can be at femoral (most common), brachial, radial, axillary, jugular and subclavian areas

8. Data Collection Physiologic data unusually collected
Hemodynamic parameters
Includes blood pressure
Cardiac output
Vascular pressures (inside & outside the heart)
ECG
Oximetry readings
Blood samples to measure oxygen saturations levels in various parts of the heart

9. Coronary Angiography
LT coronary
artery
Normal LT coronary Artery

10. PTCA with Stenting

11. PTCA with Stent Placement

12. Post Catheterization Care
Firm pressure is applied to puncture site for minutes
Wound sites are cleaned and dressed
The patient will be observed in recovery for 4-8 hours
The insertion site will be checked frequently for signs of bleeding.
Medications and discharge instructions are given
Lots of fluid should be taken in
Vital signs should be monitored for 24 hours