What are the precautions taken with pericardiocentesis?

Various Pecautions: Pericardiocentesis is done in a cardiac catheterization laboratory under sterile conditions with high-quality x-ray equipment. Before performing the procedure, the cardiac ultrasound will indicate whether the fluid collection is accessible to the cardiologist by way of a catheter. Telemetry is monitored and contrast is periodically injected to assure that the heart is not perforated.

Several: Careful diagnosis and studies skin prep sharp needle then introducer and curled catheter to fully drain echocardiographic monitoring.