Recovery at Home

You may feel sore, swollen, or see bruising around the insertion site for a few days. This is normal. Recovery takes time, but following these rules will help the area heal.


What You CAN Do

  • Light Housework: Simple tasks around the house.
  • Cooking: Light meal preparation.
  • Walking: Easy walking is usually okay (if allowed by your doctor).

What You CANNOT Do

  • No Heavy Lifting: Nothing over 10 pounds (like a gallon of milk).
  • No Hard Exercise: Avoid vigorous workouts.
  • No Driving: Wait until your doctor clears you.

Hygiene Rules

  • 24–48 Hours After: You can take a shower.
  • First Week: DO NOT soak the site. No baths and no swimming until your doctor says it is okay. Keep the site clean and dry.

Your Discharge Care Plan

Before leaving the hospital, staff will review your medications and lifestyle changes (like diet and smoking cessation). Medications often change after this procedure, so be sure you understand your new schedule.

When to Call for Help

Call 9-1-1 Immediately

  • Severe trouble breathing or sudden shortness of breath.
  • Sudden chest pain.
  • Coughing up blood.
  • Passing out (loss of consciousness).
  • Stroke Signs: Face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty.

Call Your Doctor

  • Bleeding: Bright red blood soaks through the bandage.
  • Swelling: A lump at the site gets bigger.
  • Infection: Increased pain, warmth, redness, pus, or fever.
  • Circulation: Leg/arm feels painful, cold, numb, tingly, or looks blue.
  • Nausea: Vomiting or unable to keep fluids down.