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 cant 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.
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