As a nurse, I would like to clarify that CABG stands for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting, which is a surgical procedure used to treat blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. The radial artery is one of the arteries that can be used as a graft during CABG.
If a patient is undergoing CABG using the radial artery, the nurse should anticipate that the patient may experience pain, swelling, and bruising at the site of the radial artery harvest. The nurse should monitor the patient's vital signs, assess the patient's pain levels, and administer pain medication as ordered. Additionally, the nurse should assess the patient's hand and arm for signs of circulation and nerve function, such as capillary refill, pulse strength, and sensation. The nurse should also educate the patient about postoperative care, including wound care and activity restrictions, to promote healing and prevent complications.