Explanation of Cardiac Cath

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Cardiac Cath 2

Access Sites for Cardiac Cath

Cardiac Catheterization (Cath) is most commonly performed by inserting a thin flexible tube into the right femoral artery which is located under the skin in the right groin. Occasionally the right or left arm (brachial artery) or wrist (radial artery) approach may be employed.

How to Prepare

Cath may be performed during a hospitalization (inpatient) or when the patient is admitted and discharged on the same day of the procedure (outpatient).

Outpatient Checklist

Pack a small overnight bag in case you need to spend the night in the hospital. Leave all valuables at home. Pack your contact lenses (with solution) and eye glasses if you wish to view the pictures during the procedure.
If the procedure is scheduled prior to noon, do not eat or drink after midnight. Medications prescribed by your doctor may be taken with sips of water. If the procedure is scheduled for the afternoon, you may be allowed to have an early liquid breakfast (juice, tea, broth, water, etc.) prior to 7 a.m.
Make certain that you have directions to the lab and the time that you are to report there. Call your doctor's office or the facility if you have any questions. Also, make sure that you receive instructions about eating, drinking, and the use of prescribed medications.
Diabetic patients, particularly those on insulin, need clarification about the insulin dose and whether it will be used before or after the procedure.
Make arrangements to have a family member or friend drive you home. There is a waiting area provided for their use.
If you are given lab results and Electrocardiogram (EKG) by your doctor, please be sure to give them to the nurse when you arrive. Also, bring all your regular medicines (or at least a list) with you.

Preparations are similar if you are already hospitalized on the day of the procedure.

After Arrival in the Cath Lab

You will check in at the admission desk.
If you have not had recent blood work or an EKG, they will be obtained by the nurse.
You will receive instructions about the procedure and what is expected for the day. Your doctor or office staff may already have discussed the procedure, risks and indications with you. You will be asked to sign a consent form. Feel free to ask any questions.
You will be questioned about your history, medications, and allergies. (If you have an allergy to iodine and shellfish, or have had prior problems during an x-ray procedure or cardiac cath, please be sure to notify the nurse.) You will then change into a hospital gown.
Make sure that you empty your bladder before being taken to the cath lab.
The nurse will check your pulse and blood pressure.
The pulse area on your arm or leg may be marked with a felt-tip pen.
An Intravenous (IV) will be started in your arm with the use of a small needle or plastic tube. This will allow the administration of fluids and medications.
You may be given medicines (by mouth or IV) to help you relax.

When preparations are complete and the cath lab is ready, you will be transferred to the cath lab.