CHAPTER 1 Cardiovascular System^73
WHAT TO DO?
Before the test:- Chemistry to assess creatinine, BUN and creatinine clearance. These are tests
to determine kidney function. - Determine if the patient is allergic to seafood or iodine. If so, notify the
physician immediately because the patient might be also allergic to the radio-
paque dye. - Obtain written consent from the patient. Risks and benefits of the test need
to be explained to the patient before commencing. - Nothing by mouth (NPO) for 4 to 6 hours before the test to reduce the risk
of aspiration. - Explain the procedure to the patient and its possible side effects. These are
flushing of the face, nausea, urge to urinate, and chest pain, which are usu-
ally reactions to the dye. - Record baseline vital signs, so to assess for changes.
After the test: - Assess for bleeding at the injection site since a major artery has been accessed.
If there is bleeding, apply pressure until bleeding stops. - Keep patient on bed rest for 8 hours, so as not to dislodge a clot from the
artery used for the catheter. - Keep pressure on injection site for 8 hours to ensure clotting at the site.
- If femoral artery is used, keep left leg straight for 8 hours to minimize risk
of dislodging clot. - If antecubital fossa used, keep arm straight for 3 hours to minimize risk of
dislodging clot. - Monitor vital signs to assess for changes.
- Increase fluid intake to assist the kidneys in excreting the dye.
Echocardiograph
WHY IS IT GIVEN?
An ultrasound of the heart provides a noninvasive examination of intracardiac
structures and blood flow.