CHAPTER 1 Cardiovascular System^81
WHAT TO DO?
Before the test:- Assess latest chemistry to check on BUN, creatinine, and creatinine
clearance. - 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
dye. - Obtain written consent from the patient to assure adequate knowledge of
risks and benefits.
Explain the procedure to the patient and its possible effects. These are flush-
ing of the face, nausea, urge to urinate, and chest pain, which may be a reaction
to the dye.
After the test:- Check for bleeding at the injection site to assess for hemorrhage. If bleeding,
apply pressure until bleeding stops. - Check for infection at the injection site. Look for redness, warmth, and ooz-
ing of purulent matter. - Increase fluid intake to assist the kidneys in excreting the dye.
Pulse Oximetry
WHY IS IT GIVEN?
This determines the abbreviated arterial oxygen saturation of the blood. The full
arterial oxygen saturation is determined by the arterial blood gas test.
HOW DOES THE TEST WORK?
An infrared light passes through the patient’s nail bed or skin. The amount of
infrared light passing through determines the amount of arterial oxygen saturation
of the blood.