Developing best practice in arterial sheath removal for registered nurses

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the consistency of nursing practi ce in the discontinuation of sheaths on designating nursing units. The samp le population was randomly selected based on interventional cardiac procedu res where sheaths remained in place after leaving the catheterization lab. The data collected demonstrated inconsistencies in current practice of shea th removal and specific device preference by the nursing staff. Changes to the policies and physician order set were revised to best practice standard s. Annual competency training was developed for the staff as was written an d visual education. The changes that were implemented throughout the projec t provided for a positive change in patient outcome, revenue savings, and p atient satisfaction.