To whom should the RN most appropriately assign a cardiac catheterization?

The most appropriate choice for assigning a cardiac catheterization is the client scheduled for the procedure. This is because the responsibility for conducting invasive procedures, such as cardiac catheterization, lies with specialized staff, typically including interventional cardiologists or trained radiology personnel. The RN should ensure that the procedure is performed by individuals who are appropriately skilled and credentialed for such invasive interventions.

Assigning the procedure to a client who is directly scheduled for it ensures that the timing and preparations are correctly aligned with the provider's orders and the patient’s specific needs. The RN plays a vital role in the pre-procedure assessment, monitoring for contraindications, and ensuring the client understands the procedure and its implications.

While other clients mentioned may have specific healthcare needs, they are not directly related to the task of performing a cardiac catheterization. For example, clients requiring ambulation or ROM exercises may need nursing support but are not appropriate assignments for such an invasive procedure. Similarly, a client on strict bed rest for urine collection doesn’t relate to performing the catheterization either. The focus must always be on ensuring that tasks and responsibilities are matched with the appropriate skill sets and clinical indications.