What is cardiac catheterization to repair congenital heart defect?

After cardiac catheterization to repair your child's heart defect: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• Your child passes out (loses consciousness).
• Your child has trouble breathing.
• Your child is bleeding a lot from the catheter site.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child is dizzy or lightheaded.
• Your child has severe pain where the catheter was put in, or the area becomes cold, pale, blue, tingly, or numb.
• Your child has swelling and a lump that is getting bigger under the skin at the catheter site.
• Your child is sick to the stomach or cannot keep fluids down.
• Your child has pain that does not go away after you give your child pain medicine.
• Your child has signs of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the incision.
  • Pus draining from the incision.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if your child has any problems.