Cardiac catheterization discharge instructions (patient information)

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 is a procedure in which a small plastic tube (catheter) is threaded into the heart from a blood vessel in the leg or arm. To do the procedure, a small puncture was made in one of your 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?

You should not bathe or swim until the puncture site is healed. This usually takes about a week. You may remove the Band-Aid over your puncture site and shower the day after the procedure.

When I may go back to work?

Ask your doctor when you may go back to work. This will depend on the type of work you do.