Cardiovascular Disorders and Treatment Practice Test

After PCI, protecting the arterial puncture site is the main priority. The catheter was inserted into a neck/leg artery, and you’re on antiplatelet therapy, so the site needs time to seal and heal. Lifting heavy objects or doing strenuous activity increases blood pressure and straining at the puncture site, which can cause bleeding, a hematoma, or vessel injury. That’s why avoiding lifting anything heavy and strenuous activity is the best answer, typically for about a week or until your clinician says it’s okay to resume.

Other activities aren’t as tightly restricted in the immediate period, but always follow your specific discharge instructions.