What are preparations before and after cardiac catheterization?

Multiple: Typically, a patient having catheterization in the morning will be instructed not to eat anything after midnight. Many medications can be given as prescribed. Some medications, such as anticoagulants and diabetic medications, may be different before catheterization. Following catheterization, some restrictions on activity will occur for a short period of time.

Elective? : If emergent, there is no prep. If elective, blood count, renal function, electrolytes, clotting studies, chest x-ray and an ekg are done beforehand. If one is allergic, pretreament is given. If renal function is abnormal, hydration is given. One should have nothing by mouth for at least 6 hours beforehand. Anticoagulation, if present, is reversed. Diabetes drug doses are reduced or held.