Left Heart Catheterization Home Care

WOUND SITE

• The morning after your procedure, you may take the dressing off. The easiest way to do this is when you are showering, get the tape and dressing wet and remove it.
• The site may also be slightly swollen and pink, and there may be a small lump at the site.
• Do not use creams, lotions or ointment on the wound site.

ACTIVITY

• You will need to take it easy for the first two days after you get home. You can expect to feel tired and weak the day after the procedure. Take walks around your house and plan to rest during the day.

FOR RADIAL CATH

• Do not participate in strenuous activities for 2 days after the procedure. This includes most sports - jogging, golfing, play tennis, and bowling.
• Gradually increase your activities until you reach your normal activity level within two days after the procedure.

FOR FEMORAL CATH

• Do not strain during bowel movements for the first 3 to 4 days after the procedure to prevent bleeding from the catheter insertion site.
• Avoid heavy lifting (more than 10 pounds) and pushing or pulling heavy objects for the first 5 to 7 days after the procedure.
• Gradually increase your activities until you reach your normal activity level within one week after the procedure.

DIET/MEDICATION

• Please make sure you understand what medications you should be taking after the procedure and how often to take them.
• If you have diabetes, your doctor may adjust your diabetes medications for one to two days after your procedure.
• Be sure to drink eight to ten glasses of clear fluids (water is preferred) to flush the contrast material from your system.
• Your health care team can help you achieve your goals, but it is up to you to take your medications as prescribed, make dietary changes, quit smoking, exercise regularly, keep your follow-up appointments and be an active member of the treatment team.

WHEN TO CALL CCAD AND SEEK HELP?

• Chest pain or discomfort (angina-like) that lasts for 5 minutes and is not relieved by rest or medications.
• Bleeding from the catheter insertion site that doesn’t stop after 20 minutes.
• Use a clean compress (clean gauze, wash cloth) to apply pressure directly on the site.
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath NOT relieved by rest.
• Feeling light-headed, dizzy, very weak or anxious.