After femoral access during cardiac catheterization, which assessment is most important to monitor?

• A. To evaluate heart rate
• B. To monitor for vasospasm or thrombus affecting limb perfusion
• C. To check oxygen saturation
• D. To measure blood pressure

Answer: (B)

After femoral artery access for cardiac catheterization, the priority is to watch for problems that can directly threaten the leg’s blood supply. Vasospasm or a thrombus in the artery can quickly reduce distal perfusion, risking tissue damage. The most important assessment is assessing limb perfusion downstream of the access site: check distal pulses, compare color and temperature of the leg with the other side, observe capillary refill, and assess sensation and movement. Early signs of reduced perfusion (cool, pale leg; diminished or absent pulses; delayed cap refill; numbness or pain) require prompt reporting and intervention to prevent ischemic injury.

While heart rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure are important overall, they don’t specifically detect limb ischemia from femoral access.