Solutions
PT (Prothrombin Time)
11-12.5 seconds
Evaluates the clotting ability of blood
aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time)
30-40 seconds
Therapeutic value: 46-70
Measures the time it takes for blood to clot
INR (International Normalized Ratio)
0.8-1.1 or 0.75-1.25
Therapeutic Value 2-3 VTE, 2.5-3.5 mechanical valve; may
vary based on comorbidities Standardizes PT results for
monitoring anticoagulant therapy
BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen)
10-20 mg/dL (2.5-7.1 mmol/L)
Assesses kidney function and protein breakdown in the body
Cr (Creatinine)
Males: 0.6-1.2 mg/dL (53-106 µmol/L) Females: 0.5-1.1 mg/dL
(44-97 µmol/L)
Measures kidney function and muscle breakdown
BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide)
,<100 pg/mL
Evaluates heart failure and cardiac stress
Troponin T (cTnT)
Troponin I (cTnI)
<0.1 ng/mL
<0.03 ng/mL
Assesses heart damage, particularly related to cardiac injuries
C-reactive protein (CRP)
<10 mg/L
Indicates inflammation levels in the body
Cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure used to
diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions. It involves
threading a catheter through a blood vessel to the heart. This
procedure can be used to perform angioplasty, stent placement,
and evaluate heart function. It provides detailed information
about the heart's structure, function, and blood flow.
Cardiac Catheterization Purpose
Hematoma or bleeding at the catheter insertion site.
Infection.
Damage to the blood vessels.
Arrhythmias.
Allergic reaction to contrast dye.
Kidney damage due to contrast dye.
Myocardial infarction.
Stroke.
Cardiac Catheterization Complications
,Explain the procedure to the patient, including its purpose and
what to expect.
Inform the patient that they will need to fast (NPO) for 6-12
hours before the procedure.
Explain the importance of remaining still during the procedure.
Inform the patient that they may feel a warm sensation or
flushing when the contrast dye is injected.
Advise the patient to report any chest pain or discomfort
immediately.
Explain that after the procedure, it's important to keep the leg
straight and to avoid bending it to prevent bleeding from the
insertion site.
Encourage the patient to drink fluids after the procedure to help
flush out the contrast dye, unless contraindicated.
Cardiac Catheterization Nursing Teachings
An echocardiogram is a non-invasive diagnostic test that uses
ultrasound waves to create images of the heart. This test can
evaluate the size, shape, and movement of the heart's chambers
and valves, and measure the ejection fraction.
Echocardiogram:
Purpose
There are generally no complications associated with an
echocardiogram as it is non-invasive.
Echocardiogram:
Complications
, Explain that the echocardiogram is a non-invasive test that uses
sound waves to create images of the heart.
Inform the patient that the test is painless and does not involve
radiation.
Explain that they will need to remove clothing from the waist up
and wear a hospital gown.
Inform the patient that they may be asked to change positions or
hold their breath briefly during the test to obtain clear images.
Reassure the patient that the healthcare provider will explain the
results and any necessary follow-up.
Echocardiogram:
Nursing Teachings
TEE is a specialized type of echocardiogram that uses a probe
passed down the esophagus to obtain images of the heart. It
provides a closer look at the heart's structures and is often used
when standard echocardiogram images are not sufficient.
Assessing Valvular Function: TEE allows for a closer evaluation
of heart valve structure and function. It is especially useful in
detecting conditions such as infective endocarditis or prosthetic
valve dysfunction.
Detecting Blood Clots: TEE can detect the presence of blood
clots within the heart, particularly in the atria. It helps in
diagnosing conditions like atrial fibrillation or thrombus
formation.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE):
Purpose