Limiting lifting to under 10 lbs after sheath removal is primarily to:

Limiting lifting to under 10 pounds after sheath removal is primarily aimed at preventing bleeding and complications. After sheath removal, there is a risk of vascular complications, including bleeding or hematoma formation at the access site. The sheath is typically placed in a large blood vessel during procedures such as catheterizations, and once removed, the area may still be vulnerable to trauma or undue pressure.

Restricting lifting activities helps minimize the strain on the access site, ensuring that the site remains stable and that clotting occurs properly without disruption. This precaution is crucial to maintain hemostasis and prevent any potential bleeding that could occur from increased intra-abdominal pressure or muscular exertion. The focus on this safe lifting limit is to protect the patient and facilitate an optimal recovery process post-procedure, ensuring the healing of the vascular access site.