Diagnostic angiography performed by nurses.
The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a nurse performing diagnostic angiography. After a theoretical and practical training course on the techniques of arterial catheterization, the nurse performed diagnostic angiography under supervision on 68 patients. Patients with impalpable femoral pulses or scarred groins as well as obese patients were excluded. Successful arterial catheterization was achieved in 58 (85%) patients. Complications were limited to a severe haematoma requiring surgery in one patient and seven minor self-limiting haematomas. On this evidence, it is feasible and safe for appropriately trained nurses to perform angiography in radiology departments that have limited radiology staffing levels and no non-invasive alternations to catheter-based angiography.
Morgan
R
R
Department of Radiology, St George's Hospital, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT, UK.
Wallis
L
L
Belli
A M
AM
D000792:Angiography / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000592:standards; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006406:Hematoma / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008485:Medical Audit; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education