What should I expect after my child’s cardiac catheterization?

A heart catheterization, or “cardiac cath,” procedure is a procedure where a physician inserts a thin tube called a catheter into a blood vessel and threads it to the heart.

After the catheterization procedure, your doctor will determine whether you will be able to go home the same day or if your child will be admitted to the hospital afterward. Even if you are expecting to go home the same day, it is a good idea to bring an overnight bag for you and your child in case your child needs to be hospitalized overnight. If you have other children, try to have a backup plan for child care in case you have to spend the night at the hospital.

Your cardiologist will advise you about when it is appropriate for your child to resume normal activities, when it is okay for the child to bathe again, and what eating and drinking guidelines should be followed. You will also be given specific instructions for care of the puncture site where the catheters were inserted and for pain management for your child.

Please note: If there is significant bleeding from the puncture site, place pressure with your fingertips slightly above the entry site for a few minutes then slowly release pressure. If it does not stop, continue to place pressure and call your pediatrician, cardiologist, or emergency medical services. Also, if your child is not eating normally within 24 hours of the procedure, contact your cardiologist or pediatrician.