| The Day of Your Angioplasty at Waterbury Hospital
The Morning of Angioplasty
A member of the Cath Lab team will greet you and escort you to the prep area. Here you will be asked to change into a hospital gown.
Once you are changed, a Cath Lab staff member will prepare you for your angioplasty by starting an IV in one of your arms. Your groin area will be shaved or clipped of any hair. You will then be taken to the Cath Lab.
Then the Cath lab team will further prepare you for your procedure. A drape will be placed across you to maintain a sterile environment. You will be placed on a cardiac monitor so the nurse can continuously monitor your condition. A blood pressure cuff will be placed on your arm and you will be given medication through your IV to help you relax. During Angioplasty
There will be several people in the Cath Lab who are dedicated to your comfort and safety. You may feel chest pain during your procedure. However, this should last only 1-2 minutes, please let the nurse know so that she can make you comfortable. You will be in good hands.
The Cardiologist will place a catheter or thin wire into your groin and inject you with x-ray dye so that he can see your heart vessels. Once the catheter is in place, the Cardiologist will begin taking pictures with a large X-Ray Machine, which will be turning and moving all around you.
The length of time required for your operation will depend on your specific condition. An average time is 1-2 hours. Your family/friend will be made comfortable in our waiting area and a volunteer may be available to assist them with any needs. Your nurse will keep them informed of your condition and surgery.
When the procedure is finished, your cardiologist will review the results with you. In addition he will also go out and meet with your family/friends to let them know how you are doing and to answer any of their questions. Admission to the CVU Immediately After Angioplasty
When your procedure is finished, the cardiologist will often remove the catheter that was inserted into your groin for the procedure. Firm pressure will be applied for about 20 minuets to prevent bleeding. A transparent dressing will then be applied over the site. In some cases, the cardiologist may elect to leave the catheter in the groin and remove it 2-6 hours later.
Following your procedure you will be transported to the CVU where you will stay until the morning. The CVU nurse will give discharge instructions and anything you need to know for your care at home to you. You may be connected to a heart monitor during your entire recovery. This will show your care team a constant view of your heart rate and rhythm.
Family and friends are an important part of our team and as soon as your condition permits, we will be including them in your ongoing recuperation.
The evening of your angioplasty, the Cardiac Rehab Team will come visit with you to begin discussing your activity after discharge and your involvement in the Cardiac Rehab program. You may also request to see a dietician prior to discharge. If you forget to do so, the rehab team will make arrangements for you to speak with a dietician on your first visit. |