Acetylcysteine and Fenoldopam

Cuidados de enfermagem na prevenção da insuficiência renal provocada por contraste após cateterismo

O estudo teve como objetivo identificar produções científicas de enfermagem sobre insuficiência renal aguda provocada por contraste iodado após cateterismo cardíaco, no período de 2002 a 2007, analisando sua aplicabilidade à prática. Foi realizada ainda uma análise crítica das produções científicas selecionadas, delineando os cuidados de enfermagem. Este estudo é uma pesquisa bibliográfica de artigos de enfermagem, encontrados através de busca computadorizada. Dos 47 artigos encontrados, 10 foram selecionados por terem atendido os critérios de inclusão. Após a análise dos artigos, verificamos a importância da atuação do enfermeiro na prevenção da insuficiência renal aguda provocada por contraste. Além disso, evidenciamos a melhor prática de enfermagem para a prevenção da insuficiência renal aguda provocada por contraste.

Radiofrequency ablation in the pulmonary veins for paroxysmal, drug-resistant atrial fibrillation

For select individuals with chronic, drug-resistant, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, who have failed pharmacologic suppression or mechanical cardioversion, radiofreqency ablation of ectopic foci in and around the ostia of the pulmonary veins can restore normal sinus rhythm, prevent recurrence of the arrhythmia, and improve the quality of life. Radiofrequency ablation of these sites is an evolving process as improvements are made in the catheters and procedure. Major complications include pulmonary vein stenosis, stroke, and cardiac tamponade.

Evidence-based Practice for the Use of N-acetylcysteine

The use of N-acetylcysteine has increased in the prevention of radiographic contrast induced nephrotoxicity. Many nurses need to be aware of the proper administration and action of this prophylactic agent. This article discusses the research behind the use of N-acetylcysteine and the protocol for administration to prevent radiographic contrast-induced nephrotoxicity.

Cardiac defibrillation and resynchronization therapies: principles, therapies, and management implications

Patients with heart failure remain at high risk for sudden cardiac death (SCD) and death due to heart failure progression, despite the incorporation of pharmacologic agents into clinical practice that have been shown to decrease mortality in clinical trials. Most patients experience SCD as their first dysrrhythmic event. The implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) effectively terminates ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation (VT/VF) aborting SCD. Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) complements pharmacologic therapy improving cardiac performance, quality of life, functional status, and exercise capacity in patients with systolic dysfunction despite optimal medical therapy who have a prolonged QRS duration; furthermore, it decreases mortality when compared with optimal medical therapy alone. Implantation of a combination CRT and ICD device, a CRT-D, reduces mortality by aborting SCD and providing the functional benefits of CRT. This article discusses the evolution of CRT-D therapy, the mechanism of operation of a CRT-D device, and nursing implications.