Recurrence remains a major problem after PTCA. The recurrence rate is higher in patients with diabetes, patients 70 years of age or older, and patients with severe coronary artery disease. Intimal tearing during the procedure may lower the recurrence rate. Recurrence in patients with multivessel angioplasty is higher than for those with single-vessel angioplasty, and it appears to be cumulative. The nurse can play an important role in risk-factor modification, teaching, and promoting smooth transitions in life-style changes after patients undergo angioplasty. Through education by the nurse, patients can learn to recognize angina and learn how to seek treatment for recurrence of ischemic symptoms. Lastly, the nurse can play an important role in patient follow-up. This can be done by reinforcing and encouraging patient compliance. Through further research the management and control of recurrence can be better understood.