Groin Site Care

• If your dressing is still over the puncture site, you may remove it the day after you go home and you may shower.

• For the first few days, wash the groin area gently with soap and water.

• Bruising is very common, and the bruise will frequently get larger over the first few days.  This is normal and will fade over a couple of weeks.

• There may be a small lump or nodule present that does not increase in size and is not accompanied by redness.  This will resolve gradually.

• Your groin will typically be somewhat tender for a few days.  Tylenol is the best choice for pain relief.  Avoid extra Aspirin products.

 Special Groin Site Instructions:

•  Bleeding from the puncture site can be visible or can be under the surface of the skin, appearing as a lump or swelling at the insertion site, and usually is accompanied by pain.

• If either of the above occurs, lay down flat and have someone apply firm pressure with both hands to the bleeding site.  The pressure should be held for 20 minutes, at which time the bleeding should be stopped.  If the bleeding does not stop, maintain pressure to the site and call the physician.  If unable to reach the physician, have a family member or friend drive you to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

• Please call if you notice redness, puffiness, pus or drainage at the puncture site, or if you develop a fever.

Activity:

Resume activity as tolerated upon returning home.  Do not lift over 10-15 pounds for one week unless told otherwise by your doctor.  Sexual activity may be resumed when you are ready.  Do not drive for 24-48 hours unless told otherwise by your doctor.

Bathing:

You may shower when you go home; however, avoid hot baths, steam baths, saunas, or Jacuzzis until okaying with cardiologist.

Diet: Cardiac

Low fat 45-50 grams/day, low cholesterol 200 mg/day.  Sodium (salt) should be no more than 2-3 grams/day.