Perma-Cath Placement
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.
A perma-cath is a catheter placed through a vein into or near your right atrium. Your right atrium is the right upper chamber of your heart. A perma-cath is used for dialysis in an emergency or until a long-term device is ready to use. After your procedure, you will have some pain and swelling on your chest and neck. You may have some bruises on your chest and neck. You may also have 2 dressings, one on your chest and one on your neck.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You feel lightheaded, short of breath, and have chest pain.
- Your catheter comes out
Seek care immediately if:
- Blood soaks through your bandage.
- You have new swelling in your arm, neck, face, or chest on your right side.
Call your doctor if:
- Your catheter gets wet.
- Your bruises or pain get worse.
- You have a fever or chills.
- Your incision is red, swollen, or draining pus.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Self-care:
- Avoid lifting with your right arm. You could put a strain on your incision before it starts to heal. Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to your normal activities.
- Keep your dressings dry. Do not take a shower or swim. You may take a tub bath, but do not get your dressings wet. Water in your wound can cause bacteria to grow and cause an infection. If your dressing gets wet, dry it off and cover it with dry sterile gauze. Call your healthcare provider. Do not use soaps or ointments.
- Do not change your dressings. Your healthcare provider will change your dressings. Your dressings should stay in place until your healthcare provider removes them. The dressing on your chest will stay as long as you have the catheter in place. The dressing prevents infection.
- Do not remove the red and blue caps from the end of your catheter. The caps prevent air from getting into your catheter.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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