Angiography Procedure, Patient Preparation, and Nursing Role:

 

Angiography Procedure, Patient Preparation, and Nursing Role:

Angiography Procedure

Angiography is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the blood vessels, typically to detect blockages, narrowing, or abnormalities. It involves injecting a contrast dye into the blood vessels and capturing images using X-rays, CT scans, or MRI.

Steps in the Procedure

1. Preparation: The patient lies on a specialized table, and the insertion site (usually the femoral or radial artery) is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed to minimize discomfort.
3. Catheter Insertion: A catheter is inserted into the blood vessel and guided to the area of interest using imaging techniques.
4. Contrast Injection: A contrast dye is injected through the catheter to make blood vessels visible.
5. Imaging: X-rays or other imaging methods are used to capture detailed views of the vessels.
6. Completion: The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the site to prevent bleeding.

---

Patient Preparation

Proper preparation is crucial to ensure safety and accuracy of the procedure.

Steps for Patient Preparation

1. Consent and Education: Explain the procedure, potential risks, and benefits to the patient, and obtain informed consent.
2. Fasting: Ensure the patient has fasted for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
3. Allergy Check: Assess for allergies to iodine-based contrast dyes or shellfish.
4. Baseline Assessment: Record vital signs, assess pulses near the site of insertion, and perform blood tests (e.g., kidney function, coagulation profile).
5. Medication Review:
   • Discontinue anticoagulants like aspirin or warfarin as advised.
   • Ensure premedication with antihistamines or steroids if the patient has a history of mild allergic reactions.
6. Hydration: Maintain adequate hydration to protect kidney function unless contraindicated.
7. Site Preparation: Shave and clean the insertion area to reduce infection risk.

---

Nursing Role

Before Angiography

1. Patient Preparation:
   • Educate the patient and reduce anxiety.
   • Confirm fasting and pre-procedure instructions have been followed.
   • Check for allergies and inform the team of any risks.
2. Monitoring:
   • Assess vital signs, oxygen saturation, and peripheral pulses.
   • Document any pre-existing conditions or abnormalities.
3. IV Access: Secure IV access for contrast administration and emergency medications.
4. Informed Consent: Ensure consent is signed and documented.
5. Equipment Check: Verify the availability of necessary supplies and emergency equipment.

During Angiography

1. Assistance: Assist the physician by handing over sterile equipment and monitoring the patient.
2. Observation:
   • Continuously monitor vital signs and ECG for signs of arrhythmia or complications.
   • Observe for any allergic reactions to the contrast dye.
3. Communication: Keep the patient informed during the procedure to alleviate anxiety.
4. Emergency Readiness: Be prepared to manage adverse events such as anaphylaxis or vasovagal reactions.

After Angiography

1. Post-Procedure Care:
   • Apply pressure to the insertion site to prevent bleeding.
   • Monitor for signs of hematoma, infection, or bleeding.
   • Keep the patient on bed rest as advised, typically for 4-6 hours.
2. Monitoring:
   • Regularly assess vital signs, puncture site, and peripheral pulses.
   • Observe for complications such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or abnormal heart rhythms.
3. Hydration: Encourage oral fluids or administer IV fluids to flush out the contrast dye.
4. Education:
   • Instruct the patient on activity restrictions and signs of complications to watch for, such as swelling, redness, or pain at the site.
   • Advise on follow-up care and when to seek medical attention.
5. Documentation: Record the procedure details, patient responses, and nursing interventions.

---