What are relevant questions to ask during a Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) procedure?

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Last updated: February 21, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

To ensure optimal patient care during a Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) procedure, ask about the patient's eligibility for same-day discharge and the plan for post-procedural care, including antiplatelet and anticoagulation management. When inquiring about the patient's care plan, consider asking:

  • What are the patient's clinical factors that may influence the decision for same-day discharge, such as the presence of non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) or ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) 1?
  • Has the patient received a P2Y12 inhibitor loading dose, and what is the plan for administering aspirin and statin prescriptions post-procedure 1?
  • Are there any social factors that may impact the patient's ability to be discharged on the same day, such as the availability of a caregiver or the patient's willingness to go home 1? Understanding these factors is crucial because they impact patient safety, procedural success, and the decision for same-day discharge. Additionally, be prepared to discuss the rationale for medication choices based on the patient's specific condition, such as stable angina versus acute coronary syndrome, and the importance of educating the patient on monitoring their access site and emergency contact information 1. Key considerations for same-day discharge include:
  • Clinical factors, such as the success of the PCI procedure and the presence of complications 1
  • Patient social factors, such as the availability of a caregiver and the patient's willingness to go home 1
  • Staff/systems factors, such as the scheduler informing the patient about the possibility of same-day discharge and scheduling the PCI procedure early enough in the day to allow for reasonable observation before discharge 1

From the Research

Relevant Questions to Ask During a Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) Procedure

  • What are the risks and benefits of the procedure? 2, 3
  • What are the alternative treatments available? 2, 3
  • What are the potential complications of the procedure? 4
  • How will the procedure be performed and what can I expect during the procedure? 2
  • What kind of care will I need after the procedure? 4
  • What are the signs and symptoms of potential complications, such as groin or retroperitoneal hematoma, and what should I do if I experience them? 4
  • How will my condition be monitored and managed after the procedure? 4
  • What are the purposes and risks of the procedure, and what are my treatment options? 2, 3
  • How can I improve my stay during the hospitalization for the procedure? 5
  • What questions do I have about the procedure, and what are my concerns? 6

Patient-Centered Questions

  • How can I improve your stay today? 5
  • What questions do you have about the procedure? 6
  • What are your concerns about the procedure? 6

Questions to Evaluate Patient Understanding

  • Do you understand the purposes and risks of the procedure? 2, 3
  • Do you understand your treatment options? 2, 3
  • Do you have any questions or concerns about the procedure? 6

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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