3. Cardiac Cath

what is cardiac catheterization?

an invasive procedure that guides a thin tube through a blood vessel into the heart using moving x-ray images (uses contrast)

what is the purpose of diagnostic cardiac catheterization? *

identify heart problems by measuring pressures, oxygen levels, and blood flow and examining heart structures

what is the purpose of interventional cardiac catheterization? *

treat or repair certain heart problems through the catheter

what should the nurse assess before a child’s cardiac catheterization? *

• baseline vital signs and circulation

• allergies

• medical history, current medications

what complications should the nurse monitor for after cardiac catheterization? *

• bleeding

• arrhythmia

• hematoma (blood collecting under the skin)

• blood clot

• infection

what assessments are needed immediately after cardiac catheterization? *

• vital signs

• neurovascular status in the extremities

• pressure dressing

(q15min x 1hr, then q30min x 1hr)

how often are assessments performed during the first 2 hours after cardiac catheterization? *

every 15 minutes for the first hour, then every 30 minutes for the second hour

what extremity findings should be compared on both sides after cardiac catheterization? *

pulses below the insertion site, skin color, and skin temperature

where should the nurse also check if a distal pulse cannot be felt after cardiac catheterization?

a more proximal pulse, closer to the body

the nurse should _____ before cardiac catheterization, so later assessments check pulses in the same exact spots

mark the pulse locations

what activity restriction is needed immediately after cardiac catheterization? *

bedrest (4–8 hours)

how long should the limb stay straight after cardiac catheterization? *

4–8 hours

why should intake and output be monitored after cardiac catheterization?

contrast has a diuretic effect

• encourage fluids as permitted

after a cardiac cath, the child can resume a _____ diet

regular

when should the pressure dressing be changed after cardiac catheterization?

the day after the procedure (keep dry for several days)

what insertion-site changes should caregivers watch for after cardiac catheterization?

redness, irritation, swelling, drainage, or bleeding

what extremity checks should caregivers perform after cardiac catheterization?

skin temperature, color, sensation, and pulses

3 day rules to teach parents during discharge

1. check child’s temperature once a day

2. avoid strenuous activity, including gym class

3. avoid tub baths

what medications may be used for pain after cardiac catheterization?

acetaminophen or ibuprofen as instructed

what changes should caregivers report after cardiac catheterization? *

• changes in the child’s appearance or insertion site

• fever

• heart fluttering or skipped beats

• difficulty breathing

what follow-up care is needed after cardiac catheterization?

schedule and attend the follow-up appointment as instructed