AFTER the PROCEDURE

  Questions

1. When will the results be available?
2. When will the cardiologist talk to me?
3. When can my family see me?
4. When can I sit up?
5. When can I get out of bed?
6. When can I eat or drink?
7. What if I have pain?
8. How long must I have the IV inserted?
9. When can I go home?
10. When can I drive?
11. When can I go back to work?
12. What should I do later if my arm or groin hurt?
13. Can I see the cath film myself?
14. Can I take the film to another doctor for a second opinion?

  Answers

1. When will the results be available?

   Within several hours of the completion of your procedure.

2. When will the cardiologist talk to me?

   After the films are developed. This is usually several hours.

3. When can my family see me?

   As soon as you return to your room.

4. When can I sit up?

   In four (4) hours.

5. When can I get out of bed?

   Later the same day - usually six (6) to eight(8) hours.

6. When can I eat or drink?

   As soon as you return to your room.

7. What if I have pain?

   Let your nurse know. Routine post-procedure medicine is ordered.

8. How long must I have the IV inserted?

   A minimum of six (6) hours.

9. When can I go home?

   Either the same day or the next morning.

10. When can I drive?

    The day after the procedure, if your arm or groin feel OK.

11. When can I go back to work?

    In several days. Your doctor will tell you more exactly after your catheterization.

12. What should I do later if my arm or groin hurt?

    If discomfort is present, call your doctor.

13. Can I see the cath film myself?

    Yes.

14. Can I take the film to another doctor for a second opinion?

    Yes.