Radial Site Care

Post-Procedure Care Instructions: Radial Site Incision

Introduction

Proper care after a medical procedure is crucial for a smooth recovery. This guide provides essential post-procedure care instructions for individuals who have undergone a procedure involving a radial site incision. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions, and reach out to them if you encounter any issues.

Expectations After the Procedure

Following the procedure, it’s common to experience bruising and tenderness around the incision area. This is a natural part of the healing process.

Incision Site Care

Proper care of your incision site is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. Here’s how to take care of your radial site incision:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after changing your dressing.
• Change or remove your dressing according to your healthcare provider’s instructions.
• Leave stitches, skin glue, or adhesive strips in place as directed. If adhesive strip edges loosen, you can trim them, but avoid removing them unless advised by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid baths, swimming, and hot tubs until approved by your healthcare provider.
• You may shower 24–48 hours after the procedure or as directed by your healthcare provider. When showering:
  • Gently remove the dressing.
  • Wash the incision area with plain soap and water.
  • Pat the area dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing.
  • Do not apply powder or lotion to the site.
• Regularly inspect the incision site for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, pain, fluid or blood, warmth, pus, or an unpleasant odor.

Activity Restrictions

For the first 24 hours after the procedure, adhere to these activity restrictions:

• Refrain from flexing or bending the affected arm.
• Avoid pushing, pulling heavy objects, operating machinery, and driving. If you received a sedative during the procedure, do not drive or operate machinery until cleared by your healthcare provider.
• Do not lift objects heavier than 10 lb (4.5 kg) or the limit specified by your healthcare provider.
• Gradually return to normal activities as instructed by your healthcare provider. Consult them about safe activities and when you can resume work.

Medication and General Instructions

Follow these additional instructions for a successful recovery:

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as directed by your healthcare provider.
• If you’re going home immediately after the procedure, arrange for a responsible adult to care for you during the recommended recovery period.
• Attend all follow-up visits as scheduled.

Contact Your Healthcare Provider If

• You develop a fever or chills.
• Signs of infection appear at the incision site, such as redness, swelling, pain, fluid or blood, warmth, pus, or an unpleasant odor.
• You experience rapid swelling at the incision site.
• Bleeding from the incision does not stop with steady pressure.
• Your arm or hand becomes pale, cool, tingly, or numb.

Conclusion

Proper post-procedure care is vital for a successful recovery. After a procedure involving a radial site incision, expect bruising and tenderness. Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance on incision site care, activity restrictions, and medication. Regularly monitor the incision site for signs of infection, and promptly seek medical attention for any concerning symptoms. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and assistance.