Evaluation of 3-hour ambulation post cardiac catheterization

There is much variation in the length of immobilization for patients post cardiac catheterization. While it is generally agreed that a period of time on bedrest is necessary to prevent post procedural complications, the optimal duration remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of 3-hour ambulation post cardiac catheterization with a 7 french (F) arterial catheter on bleeding, hematoma formation, and vascular complications. Retrospective chart data were gathered for a period of 8 months for patients who were on the traditional 5-hour ambulation protocol, and prospective data were gathered for a period of 7 months for patients who received the 3-hour protocol. A total of 880 patients were included in the study, with 472 in the 5-hour ambulation group and 408 in the 3-hour ambulation group. The overall incidence of delayed bleeding and hematoma formation for the 15 month study period was 19.1%, with no occurrence of vascular complications in either group. Patients who received the 3-hour ambulation protocol experienced a significantly lower rate of bleeding and hematoma formation (13%) than patients who received the 5-hour ambulation protocol (24.4%) (p < 0.001). Ambulating patients 3 hours post cardiac catheterization with a 7F catheter was found to be safe, and thus has the potential to decrease hospital length of stay, as well as increase patient comfort.