What is the initial nursing action when a child’s dressing is saturated with bright red blood after cardiac catheterization?

The initial nursing action when a child's dressing is saturated with bright red blood after cardiac catheterization is to apply direct pressure above the puncture site. This response is crucial because it helps to control any potential bleeding by providing local pressure on the blood vessel that may have been punctured during the procedure. Applying direct pressure can prevent further blood loss and stabilize the patient until further assessment and intervention can occur.

In the context of cardiac catheterization, it's important to recognize that bleeding can occur at the insertion site, and immediate action is required to manage this complication effectively. By applying pressure, the nurse can help clot formation at the site and mitigate the risk of hemorrhage, which is a serious concern following such procedures.

Other actions, such as notifying the doctor or checking the pulse, may also be necessary but would typically follow the immediate step of controlling bleeding. Removing the dressing is not advisable as it may exacerbate bleeding or disrupt any clotting that has begun. Therefore, prioritizing direct pressure is the most critical initial intervention in this scenario.