A patient with a history of six cardiac catheterizations relates that he has received differing...

The nurse’s most appropriate action is to review recent published research about bedrest protocols, as this would provide the nurse with the most current and reliable evidence to guide clinical practice and improve patient outcomes. Bedrest protocols after cardiac catheterization may vary depending on the type of access site, the use of closure devices, the patient’s risk factors, and the clinician’s preference. However, there is a growing body of research that supports early ambulation and shorter bedrest duration to reduce the risk of complications, such as bleeding, hematoma, back pain, and venous thromboembolism, and to enhance patient comfort and satisfaction123. Asking about obtaining an independent evaluation of unit outcomes, conducting an informal chart review and outcome evaluation of patients treated with different bedrest protocols, or asking the nursing supervisor to request standardized physician orders for patients who have undergone catheterization are not the most appropriate actions, as they may not reflect the best available evidence, may be biased or incomplete, or may not address the patient’s concern.

References:

1: Bedrest After Cardiac Catheterization: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis4, p. 1-2.

2: Early Ambulation After Cardiac Catheterization: A Literature Review, p. 1-2.

3: Bed Rest After Cardiac Catheterization: A Review of the Evidence, p. 1-2.