A client is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. The nurse should do which of the following pre-procedure tasks? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
A.
withhold food and oral fluids before the procedure
B.
review medications the client has taken in the last 24 hours
C.
verify that written consent has been obtained
D.
check for iodine sensitivity
E.
administer all ordered oral medications
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
For a client scheduled for a cardiac catheterization, the nurse should perform the following pre-procedure tasks:
A. Withhold food and oral fluids before the procedure
C. Verify that written consent has been obtained
D. Check for iodine sensitivity
Explanation:
- Withhold food and oral fluids before the procedure:
Cardiac catheterization often requires the client to be NPO (nothing by mouth) for a period before the procedure, typically 6-12 hours. This fasting helps minimize the risk of aspiration and ensures that the stomach and intestines are empty, which is crucial for certain types of sedation or anesthesia that may be used during the procedure. In addition, an empty stomach helps reduce the risk of complications related to the contrast dye used during the catheterization. - Verify that written consent has been obtained:
Obtaining informed consent is a critical component of pre-procedure preparation. The client must understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure. This consent ensures that the client is fully aware of what the procedure entails and agrees to it. Without this consent, the procedure cannot proceed legally and ethically. - Check for iodine sensitivity:
Cardiac catheterization involves the use of contrast dye, which contains iodine. Some clients may have allergies or sensitivities to iodine or contrast media, which can lead to adverse reactions such as allergic reactions or contrast-induced nephropathy. Checking for iodine sensitivity before administering the contrast dye helps prevent potential allergic reactions and ensures that appropriate precautions or alternative contrast agents can be used if necessary.
Incorrect Options:
- Review medications the client has taken in the last 24 hours: While reviewing the client’s medication history is important, it is typically not a specific pre-procedure task for cardiac catheterization unless there are particular concerns about medications that affect bleeding or contrast interactions. It is generally more critical to focus on withholding food and fluids, obtaining consent, and checking for iodine sensitivity.
- Administer all ordered oral medications: Generally, oral medications are withheld before procedures, especially those involving sedation or anesthesia. The nurse should confirm whether any oral medications should be taken or withheld before the procedure. Medications that affect bleeding or interact with the procedure’s contrast dye are of particular concern and should be reviewed with the healthcare provider.
By focusing on the essential tasks of withholding food and fluids, verifying consent, and checking for iodine sensitivity, the nurse ensures the safety and preparedness of the client for the cardiac catheterization procedure.