Ten Basic Instructionsof Cardiac Catheterization
in Cath lab
Dr. N.PRAVEEN
MD,DM
From the article by Frank J. Hildner, MD, FACC, FSCAI inCatheterization and Cardiovascular Diagnosis 22:307-309 (1991)
not
1.
Do not let it
Neverwithout
Never against
appropriate rarely.
• Remember, eye-hand coordination can be learned, but it is controlled by
intelligence.
obtain backbleeding
understand
Never for granted.
check
• Don’t believe any one else’s assurance that things are in order.
• Look at the injector, check its settings, and make sure there are no bubbles.
• Keep watch for potential hazards such as air in pressure and contrast lines
or syringes.
Murphy’s Law (the principle that whatever can possibly go
wrong will) applies more in the laboratory than anywhere
else
finesse, not with force
• A delicate, light touch is preferred in patients.
• Use only enough effort to get the job done.
Pain
Correct it immediately
Never leave without
answers
Even when the teaching remains constant the end product depends
on the physician-student.
Good judgment cannot be taught.
And it is judgment that ultimately separates the successful (excellent)
from the unsuccessful (mediocre) invasive cardiologist.