Cardiac catheterization discharge instructions (patient information): Difference between revisions
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==When I may go back to work?== | ==When I may go back to work?== | ||
It depends on the type of your work. you can ask your doctor when you can go back to work. | |||
Revision as of 19:29, 2 August 2011
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Mohammed A. Sbeih, M.D.[2] Phone:617-849-2629
Overview
Cardiac catheterization (heart cath) is the insertion of a catheter into a chamber or vessel of the heart. This is done for both investigational and interventional purposes. Coronary catheterization is a subset of this technique, involving the catheterization of the coronary arteries.
When could I drive after the procedure?
You should not drive for 48 hours after the procedure.
Should I go back to taking the medications I were on before?
Go back to taking any medicine you were on before, unless your doctor has told you otherwise. Be sure your doctor knows about everything you are taking, including prescription medicines, non-prescription medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
Should I take any OTC pain medications?
You may take acetaminophen (Tylenol) every six hours as needed for pain in the area where the catheter was placed. Please be sure you are not taking more than one product containing acetaminophen, and do not take more Tylenol than what is recommended on the label.
When may I resume my regular activities?
you may resume your regular activities one week after the procedure. Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling anything heavier than 10 pounds in the first week after the procedure. Also avoid any exercise that causes you to hold your breath and bear down with your abdominal muscles. Begin your exercise program one week after the procedure at half your usual routine, then gradually work back to your full routine. Please ask your doctor about your exercise instructions.
When should I bathe or swim?
Usually after one week, when the puncture site is healed. This usually takes about a week. You may shower on the day after the procedure after removing the Band-Aid over your puncture site.
When I may go back to work?
It depends on the type of your work. you can ask your doctor when you can go back to work.