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Positioning post-outpatient cardiac catheterization
1Department of Medical Nursing, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA.
Progress in Cardiovascular Nursing
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Altering patient position after cardiac catheterization is safe and improves comfort. Patients preferred side-lying or head-elevated positions over traditional supine rest, reducing dissatisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Patient Care
Background:
- Optimal patient positioning after outpatient cardiac catheterization remains under-researched.
- Traditional practice involves supine positioning with the head of the bed flat.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of three post-cardiac catheterization positions on complication rates.
- To assess patient satisfaction and comfort with different post-procedure positions.
Main Methods:
- Sixty-nine patients were randomized into three groups post-procedure.
- Group 1: Supine, head of bed (HOB) flat. Group 2: Side-lying, affected extremity straight. Group 3: Supine, HOB elevated 15-30 degrees.
- Complications and patient-reported preference for an alternative position were recorded.
Main Results:
- Complication rates were similar across groups (p=0.05).
- Significantly fewer patients in Group 1 (traditional supine) preferred an alternative position compared to Groups 2 and 3 (p < .001).
- 85% of Group 1 patients desired a different position versus 24% in Groups 2 & 3, indicating greater dissatisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Varying patient position post-cardiac catheterization is as safe as the traditional supine method.
- Alternative positions, such as side-lying or head elevation, enhance patient comfort and satisfaction.