The Effect of Gradual Mobilization on Vital Signs and Comfort Level After Transfemoral Coronary Angiography

Abstract

Transfemoral coronary angiography (TFA) is widely used for the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease. Prolonged bed rest after TFA may lead to discomfort, groin and back pain, and delayed recovery. Gradual mobilization has been suggested to improve post-procedural outcomes and patient comfort. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of planned gradual mobilization on vital signs, post-procedural symptoms, and comfort levels in patients undergoing TFA. A randomized controlled experimental study was conducted with 40 patients in a single cardiology clinic. Participants were assigned to an intervention group (planned gradual mobilization) or a control group (standard mobilization) 12 hr post-angiography. Vital signs were recorded before and 20 min after mobilization. Post-procedural symptoms including dizziness, palpitations, and falling sensations—as well as complications such as bleeding or hematoma—were documented. Patient comfort was assessed using the General Comfort Scale Short Form 2 hr after mobilization. The intervention group experienced significantly lower rates of dizziness (15% vs. 70%, p < .001), falling sensations (5% vs. 85%, p < .001), and palpitations (25% vs. 65%, p = .011) compared to the control group. No significant differences were observed in systolic or diastolic blood pressure, pulse rate, or overall comfort scores. Minor post-mobilization changes were noted in respiratory rate, body temperature, and SpO₂, with a significant increase in SpO₂ within the intervention group (p < .05). No major complications, such as hematoma or significant bleeding, were reported in either group. Planned gradual mobilization 12 hr after TFA effectively reduced dizziness, palpitations, and falling sensations without adversely affecting vital signs or comfort. Implementing gradual mobilization in nursing care may enhance patient safety, comfort, and recovery outcomes.

Keywords

transfemoral coronary angiography gradual mobilization patient comfort post-procedural symptoms randomized controlled trial

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