If the groin area was used as the point of catheter insertion, then the patient will be instructed to lie in bed with legs out straight. The physician may choose to use one of two techniques for removing the sheath that was placed at the initiation of the procedure. The traditional technique is to wait until the effects of the anticoagulant have passed (four to six hours) and then to apply pressure while removing the sheath. A newly developed technique allows the sheath to be removed immediately after the procedure through the use of hemostatic devices that seal or stitch the femoral artery.
If the wrist or arm was used as the point of catheter insertion, then the patient does not need to stay in bed. Throughout the post-procedure monitoring, the point of catheter entrance will be checked for bleeding, swelling or inflammation. Vital signs will be continuously monitored. Usually the patient stays overnight for further observation and is discharged the next day.
Patients are given instructions from the medical staff regarding the following:
- Exercise and exertion. Patients are reminded to refrain from lifting heavy objects and engaging in strenuous exercise or sexual activity for 24 hours after the procedure.
- Care of the incision area. Bruising and soreness are possible and normal. Undue pain, swelling or inflammation may require medical attention.
- The function and use of medications.
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