After transfemoral coronary angiography of early mobilization effects on vascular complications and patient comfort

Purpose: Purpose of this study was to determine the effect of early mobilization on vascular complications and patient comfort after transfemoral coronary angiography procedure without closure device. Material-Method: This study was designed as quasi-experimental research with the post-test only nonequivalent groups design. 102 patients who applied to Koç University Hospital Catheter Laboratory for transfemoral coronary angiography and meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited for the study. Relational model was also used in the research; relationship between the variables duration of the procedure and vascular complications (bleeding and hematoma) and the patient comfort (back pain and perceived comfort level). Data were collected and evaluated by using Patient Information Form, Coronary Angiography Patient Monitoring Form, Numeric Pain Scale and form, Numeric Comfort Scale, Kristin Swain's Checklist Findings: The average age of the patients for the control group and experi,mental groups was 59.5 and 61.5 respectively. In both groups, gender distribution (67% in the control group and 65% in the experiment group) was found to be male. In the control group where routine care practice was performed, back pain severity levels were gradually increased at the 2nd, 4th and 6th hours, whereas the severity of pain gradually decreased at the 2nd, 4th and 6th hours in the in the experimental group where mobilization intervention was applied. Also, it was determined that, while the perceived comfort levels gradually decreased in the control group, it gradually increased in the experimental group at the 2nd, 4th and 6th hours. Additionally, there was a significant difference in pain and control levels in the in control and experimental groups. In post-operatic and post-discharge evaluations, bleeding and hematoma were not observed in patients at the control and experimental groups. Results: Early mobilization after coronary angiography operation did not have any effect on bleeding and hematoma, and it was associated with low back pain and high comfort level. The results of this study support a better understanding for nurses about patients' physical needs and helps them to plan interventions to reduce back pain and increase patient comfort and reduce negative attitudes towards coronary angiography. More experimental research are needed to determine optimal bed rest and there is need for developing national care protocols including early mobilization after coroonary angiography.