Transitioning to Transradials

Abstract

As transradial approaches to cardiac catheterizations and percutaneous coronary interventions steadily rise in the United States, we reviewed evidence-based studies to compare the radial and femoral approaches to cardiac catheterization. The purpose of this article was to provide an overview of transradial and femoral approaches for cardiac catheterizations and percutaneous coronary interventions, preparation for the procedure, and nursing management of these patients. The strategies used to develop the transition process are also discussed.