Heart Attack, Cardiac Cath, & Bypass

Your patient is having chest pain. What do you do next? Caring for this type of patient can be very scary. Trust us, we have been right where you are and we know the intimidation you might feel. Nursing assessment and care is a crucial piece of the overall puzzle that will determine the outcome of the patient. This book guides you through caring for patients having a heart attack, cardiac cath, and bypass. You will learn about the anatomy of the heart, how to assess a patient having chest pain, and what orders to expect. You will read in depth about caring for cath and bypass patients pre- and post-operatively along with detailed explanations of each procedure. This easy to read guide is for anyone new to caring for cardiac patients in the hospital setting. We have used our own nursing and teaching experience to help explain how to assess, treat, and prevent complications. Our hope is that you feel more confident while caring for and educating this patient population. Table of Contents Chapter 1: Anatomy and Physiology

The Coronary Arteries

The Anatomy of the Heart

The Electricity of the Heart

Cardiac Rhythms

Chapter 2: Assessment

Risk Factors

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Assessment

EKG

Cardiac Enzymes

Chapter 3: Initial Treatment

Your patient has developed chest pain. What do you do next?

The Next Phase of the Intervention

Fibrinolytics

Chapter 4: Cardiac Cath

Precath Care and Orders

The Procedure

Postcath Care and Orders

Femoral Approach

Bedrest

Sheath Care

Sheath Removal

Complications

Radial Approach

Postcath Orders

Chapter 5: Non-STEMI and Unstable Angina

Orders

Chapter 6: Bypass

Preoperative Care and Orders

The Surgery

Postoperative Care and Orders

Complications

Chapter 7: Case Studies

Case Study 1, 2, 3,