Cardiology

Preadmission Screening

One of our pre-procedure nurses will attempt to call you the evening before your procedure. The call usually takes approximately 10 - 15 minutes. If you are not available, we will leave a message for you with our contact information and/or brief instructions. If we are unavailable when you call, please leave your name and number where we can reach you. Due to time constraints and staff availability, we may not be able to contact everyone.

The pre-admission screening nurse will ask you to verify your name and date of birth. You will be asked about your medications, and will be instructed on which medications you should take the morning of your procedure. Please bring a list of your medications and the last time/date you took them, including the day of procedure.

It is important for you to know that you have patient rights, which include the right to ask questions, the right to participate in your care, the right to refuse treatment, and the right to comfort, privacy, and safety.

Preparing for Your Procedure

Allergies
Please discuss all of your allergies with your doctor, especially those listed below.
  • IVP Dye/Contrast Agent Allergy, Iodine Allergy
  • Latex/Rubber Product 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 or Warfarin, Xarelto, Eliquis, Pradaxa, Savaysa, etc.)
  • Aspirin
  • Diabetes Medications (Insulin, Metformin, etc.)

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.

When to Arrive
You will be instructed to arrive 2-4 hours prior to your scheduled procedure time. For instance, if you are scheduled for 2 p.m., you should arrive at 12 p.m. Occasionally we may ask you to arrive earlier, especially if you have a history of kidney problems.

Must-Knows Before Your Procedure (Header)
As you get ready for your procedure, there are a number of things you must know. This tool will help you to be better prepared.
  1. Control Your Blood Sugar (if you are diabetic)
    Blood sugar range should be between 120 and 160 mg/ dL before meals, and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after starting a meal. The better your blood sugar is controlled in the days and weeks before and after your procedure, the better you will heal and the less likely you will experience any complications.
  2. Quit Smoking
    The longer you remain smoke-free before procedure, the better you will heal. Quitting smoking before your procedure is an important step for a successful recovery. Smoking increases your chance of complications such as infection, pneumonia, and heart attacks, both during and after your procedure. Most doctors recommend quitting smoking as soon as you decide to have a procedure. Consult the FMH Smoking Cessation program if you need help to quit. Call 240-566-3622 or email kickbutts@fmh.org.
  3. Know Your Medications
    Know the names of your medications, the dose, and how often you take it. Ask your doctor if you should take any of your medications before your procedure, even if you are told not to eat or drink anything.

Getting Ready for Your Procedure

  • Do not use lotion or conditioner on your skin or hair.
  • Remove all nail polish.
  • Leave all jewelry and valuables at home.
  • Bring your CPAP if you use one at home.
  • Make arrangements for someone to drive you home and stay with you the night after your procedure.
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before your procedure unless otherwise instructed by your physician. This includes gum or candy. The only exception would be a sip of water if you are instructed to take your medications. Intake of solid foods or liquids could cause your procedure to be postponed.
  • If you are taking any medications, ask your physician in advance if you should take them the morning of your procedure.
  • Stop smoking or limit your smoking for a few days before your procedure, and do not smoke after midnight.
  • Do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours before the procedure.
  • If you develop a cold, fever, or other health problem within 48 hours of your scheduled admission, please call and inform your physician.
  • FMH is not responsible for money or valuables you bring with you. We strongly recommend that you leave all money at home, unless you have a copay. If it is necessary to bring valuables with you, the Cashier’s office can store smaller items in the safe. When you arrive for admission, notify your nurse and arrangements will be made.

    If you have any questions, call your doctor’s office or the Cardiac Catheterization Lab at 240-566-3510.