title: Transesophageal echocardiography: a new window on the heart and great vessels.
abstract: TEE adds an exciting new dimension to the field of echocardiography. It has expanded the physician's ability to clearly examine cardiac structures and bloodflow; in many instances it has been the means by which rapid and lifesaving diagnoses have been made. The nurse collaborates with the physician during TEE by ensuring adequate preparation, remaining at the patient's bedside to assist with and monitor the effects of probe insertion and ensuring close observation and postprocedural follow up. The complication rate for TEE is negligible. Possibilities include routine pediatric use, biplane imaging and incorporation with exercise stress testing.
authors.forename: E J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Thompson
mesh_terms: D004452:Echocardiography / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing; D004945:Esophagoscopy; D006801:Humans; D010353:Patient Education as Topic