This month, we feature four interesting questions for discussion. Our first reader would like to know about resources for preparing for the NASPExAM this May. Our second reader continues the discussion with anesthesia in ICD cases by asking about guidelines. The third question deals with privately held outpatient settings, and the fourth is a question regarding venous access.

Our email discussion group is booming with questions! If you have information that would be helpful for any of these people, email us at eplabdigest@hotmail.com or go to www.eplabdigest.com and click on the email discussion group link.

This month’s questions:

NASPExAM
Can anyone provide me with some didactic prep material for the NASPExAM in May? Are there any study groups preparing online?
— Jerome LeBlanc, Central Washington Hospital, Wenatchee, Washington

ICD implants in the Cath Lab
We currently have a standing policy that requires that anesthesia be present for all of our ICD cases. Scheduling can be very difficult. From a previous discussion group question, it appears as though many cath labs do not have the same requirement. I would appreciate suggestions on where to find guidelines or information that address sedation during these cases, competency issues, and literature that I can reference.
— Anonymous

EP Studies
Our cardiology practice located in Florida opened its own outpatient cardiac cath lab two years ago. Our complication rate is very low and we are considering performing EP studies in our lab as well. Are there any other facilities in Florida or any state that perform EP studies in privately held outpatient settings?
— Patti Lawrence
Please send replies to plawrence@flcard.com

Venous Access Policy
What is the policy of either RN/LPN/scrub tech obtaining venous access and catheter placement on EP/RF ablations?  (This does not, of course, include transseptal or arterial access.) Does anyone know what the individual state boards(s) of nursing say?
— Colleen Fontenot, St. Patrick Hospital, Lake Charles, Louisiana