Before the Procedure
Preparing for Cardiac Catheterization
Allergies:
Please discuss all of your allergies with your doctor, especially those listed below.
- IVP Dye/Contrast Agent Allergy, Iodine Allergy
- Latex/Rubber Products Allergy
Medications:
Discuss your medications with your physician – he or she may want to stop or adjust the doses several days prior to or on the day of the procedure, especially those listed below.
- Anticoagulant Medication
- Coumadin: Usually hold for 5 days prior to procedure.
- Pradaxa: Usually hold for 5 days prior to procedure.
- Xarelto: Usually hold for 3 days prior to procedure.
- Eliquis: Usually hold for 5 days prior to procedure.
- Antiplatelets
- No need to stop Aspirin, Plavix, Brilinta or Effient
- Diabetes Medications
- Metformin: Usually hold 48 hour before and after procedure.
- Insulin: Usually not administered on the day of procedure.
Blood Work, EKG, Chest X-ray:
Ask your physician if all of the required pre-procedure tests have been completed or are scheduled before your cardiac catheterization procedure.
What to Bring
- We recommend bringing a family member with you to wait with you before the procedure.
- Please bring a robe with you to wear as you wait for the procedure.
- We recommend that you wear comfortable, easy-to-fold clothing.
- You may be admitted to the hospital after the procedure, so pack toiletries and any other items you would like to make your stay more comfortable. Your family member can retrieve these items from your car when you need them. Please leave all valuables at home or with a family member.
- A responsible adult MUST drive you home after the procedure. You will not be discharged unless there is someone available to drive you home.