Right heart catheterization (RHC) is an invasive diagnostic procedure that allows direct measuring of blood pressures and collection of blood samples from the caval veins, right atrium, right ventricle and pulmonary artery. It plays a central role in identifying pulmonary hypertension or in the evaluation of patients prior to heart transplantation. It also provides direct and essential hemodynamic data that can be used to determine cardiac output, evaluate intracardiac shunts and valve dysfunction. (1) Although RHC is invasive with possible risks of complications and evidence of potential harm associated with pulmonary artery catheterization in patients in critical care units has led to a decline in RHC over recent years, it still remains an important tool and the gold standard in acquiring important right heart hemodynamic data.

This presentation covers the history of RHC, nurse role and challenges during right heart study as well as a representative case report from our daily practice. In order for the RHC to be successful, a meticulous previous preparation of the patient and the catheterization laboratory along with the active participation of the cath lab nurse during the procedure are essential. This requires a thorough understanding of the entire procedure as well as human physiology and pathophysiology.