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Tests and Procedures
Cardiac Catheterization
Scheduling Your Catheterization
After being evaluated by your cardiologist the decision to perform a catheterization will be made. The timing of the procedure is dependent on the patient’s cardiac condition. Most catheterizations are performed on an elective basis, which means no immediate action is required, but should be scheduled at the earliest convenient date. Other catheterizations may need to be done on an emergent basis, which is determined by the cardiologist and current medical condition.
After your cardiologist has requested the procedure, you will be contacted directly by the catheterization technologist who will schedule the procedure. It is important that any change in personal information (address, phone, and insurance) be updated at each clinic visit with the registration personnel. Once a date is established, the following will take place:
1. Pre-admission testing:
You will be required to have a pre-procedure evaluation before any catheterization, called a PRAT (Pre-admission testing) visit. A PRAT visit is scheduled one day prior to the catheterization. During this visit, you will also have the opportunity to meet the Cath Lab Team involved in the procedure.
2. Review of medical history and physical examination:
A complete review of the patient’s medical history and physical examination will be done by a cardiology nurse practitioner at the PRAT visit. This is to ensure that there are no current conditions present which could increase the risk of the procedure. Specific concerns include any history of allergies to medications or contrast (dye), current medications, current illnesses such as a respiratory illness, fever, rash, or signs of infection at the cath site (groin area).
3. Laboratory testing:
During your PRAT visit some tests may be performed such as an: