When preparing a patient for a cardiac catheterization and coronary angiogram, which piece of information about the patient is crucial for the nurse to relay to the healthcare provider prior to the procedure?

Choice A rationale
While it’s important to inquire about an allergy to iodine in a patient who has undergone an angiogram, it’s not typically the priority for assessing and documenting for this patient after the procedure. An allergy to iodine would be more relevant before the procedure, as iodine-based contrast dye is often used during an angiogram.
Choice B rationale
Checking peripheral pulses in the affected leg is typically a priority when caring for a patient who has undergone an angiogram. This is because the procedure involves inserting a catheter into a blood vessel in the leg. Checking the peripheral pulses can help assess for potential complications such as a blood clot or decreased blood flow to the leg.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring for decreased blood pressure is important in a patient who has undergone an angiogram, but it’s not typically the priority for assessing and documenting for this patient after the procedure. While changes in blood pressure can occur after any medical procedure, other assessments such as checking peripheral pulses in the affected leg are typically more directly related to potential complications of an angiogram.
Choice D rationale
Tracking fluid intake is an important part of overall patient care, but it’s not typically the priority for assessing and documenting for a patient who has undergone an angiogram. Other assessments such as checking peripheral pulses in the affected leg are typically more directly related to potential complications of an angiogram.

Choice A rationale
Sexual activity uses about as much energy as climbing two flights of stairs. This comparison can help patients understand that if they can perform activities of similar exertion without chest pain or undue fatigue, it may be safe to resume sexual activity. However, patients should always consult with their healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
Choice B rationale
While holding and cuddling are good ways to maintain intimacy after a heart attack, this does not directly address the patient’s question about safely resuming sexual intercourse.
Choice C rationale
While it is true that the doctor will provide sexual guidelines when the patient’s heart is strong enough, this response does not provide the patient with immediate guidance or reassurance.
Choice D rationale
While most patients are able to enjoy intercourse without any complications, this statement may be too general and does not take into account the individual patient’s health status and recovery progress.