Femoral angiogram

After Your Procedure: Important Advice

You will only be discharged home once the medical team is confident that the wound site is stable.

If the wound starts bleeding heavily at home

• Lie flat on the floor immediately.
• Ask someone to press firmly on the wound for 10 minutes.
• If the bleeding does not stop, call 999 for emergency assistance.

Caring for the wound

• Keep the wound clean and dry for the first 24 hours.
• You may shower the day after the procedure.
• Do not soak the wound in water (for example, baths or swimming) for the next few days.

Pain and discomfort

Some discomfort around the wound for a few days is normal.

You may take paracetamol if needed:

• 500 mg to 1,000 mg every 4–6 hours
• Maximum: 4,000 mg (4 g) in 24 hours

If you weigh less than 50 kg (7 stone 12 pounds), you may need a lower dose. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if unsure.

Do not take more than one medicine containing paracetamol at the same time.

Bruising

You may develop bruising around the area. This is normal and can spread from the top of the leg down towards the knee.

Signs of infection

Contact your GP if you notice:

• swelling
• redness
• warmth
• discharge/oozing from the wound site

For the next 48 hours

When:

• standing up or sitting down, going up or down stairs, sneezing, coughing, or laughing, apply gentle pressure to the groin area to support it and reduce discomfort.

You must also avoid:

• driving
• working
• vigorous exercise
• bending over
• heavy lifting

Contact details

Ward K2: 01223 256233 (Monday to Friday 07:30-20:00)