Bedside nurses removing epicardial pacer wires: from concept to practice

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Nursing Practice
• Patient Discharge

Background:

• Epicardial pacer wires are commonly used during cardiac surgery.
• Traditionally, physicians remove these wires before patient discharge.
• Current practices face challenges including discharge delays and inadequate post-removal monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development, implementation, and evaluation of a nursing-led protocol for epicardial pacer wire removal.
• To assess the feasibility and safety of bedside nurses removing epicardial pacer wires on a post-operative cardiac surgery unit.

Main Methods:

• A project was developed and implemented on a post-operative cardiac surgery unit.
• Bedside nurses were trained and empowered to remove epicardial pacer wires.
• The process was evaluated for efficiency, safety, and impact on discharge.

Main Results:

• The nursing-led initiative was successfully developed and implemented.
• Bedside nurses effectively removed epicardial pacer wires.
• The project aimed to improve patient care and discharge efficiency.

Conclusions:

• Implementing a nursing-led approach for epicardial pacer wire removal is feasible.
• This change in practice can optimize post-operative care and patient flow.
• Empowering nurses in wire removal can enhance unit efficiency and patient safety.