Introduction: Coronary angiography is an invasive diagnostic examination that is performed to show the structure and anatomy of the vascular system and which can be followed by therapeutic intervention if necessary. It works by injecting a contrast agent into the bloodstream via a vascular catheter, which allows the coronary vessels to be visualized with the help of X-rays. A frequently used method of approach in coronary angiography is the femoral approach, in which the coronary arteries are entered via the femoral artery in the groin. This approach carries a higher risk of bleeding, hematomas, vascular complications, and back and leg pain. Purpose: The purpose of the thesis is to investigate and present, through a review of the literature, how nurses are involved in the process of coronary angiography with a femoral vascular approach and what their role is. Methods: A descriptive method of work was used. Literature was searched in the bibliographic collections CINAHL Ultimate and MEDLINE. The literature review took place from December 2023 to January 2024. The inclusion criteria were original and transparent scientific and professional articles in Slovenian and English, literature from 2015 to 2024, freely accessible articles in their entirety and articles that comply with content of the thesis. We included 15 articles in the analysis. Results: The results of our research focused on the following medical interventions: pain relief, anxiety reduction, care of the puncture site, stopping bleeding, assistance in getting up, assistance in changing position, prevention of vascular complications after the procedure, and concern for one's own safety. Discussion and conclusion: The nurse plays an important role in the physical and psychological preparation of the patient for the procedure, in admission to the catheterization laboratory, during the procedure itself and with medical care after the procedure. She must know the medical care of the patient after coronary angiography with a femoral approach, identify risk factors, prevent complications, implement interventions that reduce anxiety and relieve pain, take care of the physical comfort of the patient and radiation protection in the catheterization laboratory. Through her work, the nurse can increase the comfort of the patients and their satisfaction with the treatment.
|