Discharge Advice for Coronary Angiogram (Femoral and Radial)

• If your wound is in your groin you must not take a bath for three days, as the closure that is commonly used to close
your wound cannot be soaked during that period. You may shower or strip wash the next day.
• if your procedure was carried out on your wrist, you may take a bath or shower the next day.
• Any dressing placed on top of the wound may be removed the next day.

• If you have had the procedure done through the groin avoid walking long distances for the first 48 hours.
• For those procedures done through the groin or the wrist, avoid lifting heavy objects for 72 hours.

• Do not drive for the rest of the day and following day after your procedure due to the risk of bleeding.

• Unless you have been told otherwise you should continue all medications after your procedure.
• If you are on anti-coagulants to thin your blood the discharging nurse will have instructed you when to restart them if
they were stopped pre procedure.
• If you have been prescribed new medication the discharging nurse will also explain these to you.
• People who take Metformin must not take this for 48 hours after the procedure due to the reaction of the contrast dye
used at that time of your angiogram

Once you have been discharged it is important to keep an eye on your wound. If you notice any of the following it is important
to get in contact with the Cardiology Department or ward where you had the procedure. Phone numbers are at the bottom
of this sheet.
• Swelling of the wound larger than the size of a marble
• Discharge or slight bleeding (although uncommon any severe bleeding needs urgent medical attention – contact 999 and put firm pressure directly over the top of the wound until help arrives)
• Worsening pain over the incision site
• Slight bruising is normal (any large areas of bruising may need to be seen by a health care professional)
• If you feel any pain from your wound, you can take over the counter painkillers.

An appointment will be sent to you if you need to be followed up for any further tests, investigations or other procedures.