What To Expect After Cardiac Catheterization

After a cardiac catheterization, you will be moved to a special care area, where you will rest for several hours or overnight. During that time, your movement will be limited to avoid bleeding from the site where the catheter was inserted. While you recover in this area, nurses will check your heart rate and blood pressure regularly and see whether there is any bleeding from the catheter insertion site.

A small bruise may develop on your arm, groin (upper thigh), or neck at the site where the catheter was inserted. That area may feel sore or tender for about a week. Be sure to let your doctor know if you develop problems such as:

• A constant or large amount of bleeding at the insertion site that can’t be stopped with a small bandage
• Unusual pain, swelling, redness, or other signs of infection at or near the insertion site

Talk to your doctor about whether you should avoid certain activities, such as heavy lifting, for a short time after the procedure.