The nurse is caring for the patient immediately after an angiogram has been finished. Which action does the nurse take to prevent a complication of this procedure?

Question

a. Limit the patient's total fluid intake.
b. Encourage early patient ambulation.
c. Elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees.
d. Apply constant pressure to the insertion site.

Answer 1

D
Significant pressure applied to the insertion site of the angiographic catheter helps to ensure he-mostasis and prevent a postangiographic hemorrhage. The pressure is kept in place for many hours because angiograms always involve the access of major vessels and thus increase the risk of hemorrhage. The nurse complements pressure at the insertion site with continuous visualization of the site and assessment of peripheral perfusion to the affected extremity. Fluid intake increases after an angiogram to flush the dye from the system quickly to prevent renal damage. Following the angiogram, the patient is kept supine.