Radial artery haemostasis after coronary angiography: A scoping review

Nursing care in interventional cardiology is vital during perioperative stages, especially with coronary angiography. Radial artery access is now preferred, requiring proper haemostasis to prevent complications. Standardised protocols are needed for effective and economical haemostasis methods. This review aims to map the literature on haemostasis of the radial artery after coronary angiography, an area not previously reviewed.

Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews, two reviewers independently selected studies based on eligibility criteria. Data were extracted using a specially developed tool, with disagreements resolved through discussion or a third reviewer. Data synthesis is presented in tabular form and narrative summary. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for scoping reviews guidelines were followed. Searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL Complete, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, Opengrey, DART-Europe e-theses portal and six key interventional cardiology reference sites.

From 43 manuscripts, four haemostasis methods for the radial artery after coronary angiography were identified: manual compression (n = 5), compression bandages (n = 16), compression devices (n = 30) and haemostatic patches (n = 7). Nearly 70% (n = 30) of references focused on compression devices. Nine techniques were used to evaluate haemostasis methods, with visual inspection (34 references) and Doppler ultrasound (17 references) being the most common. Only nine haemostasis methods lacked an associated protocol.

This scoping review identifies four primary haemostasis methods post coronary angiography: manual compression, compression bandages, compression devices and haemostatic patches, with compression devices being the most frequently discussed. The variability in evaluation techniques, predominantly visual inspection and ultrasound, underscores the need for standardised guidelines. The absence of protocols for some methods further highlights the necessity for uniform standards to improve consistency and reliability in clinical practice. Standardising these methods and protocols is essential to enhance patient outcomes and advance the field.