How to Prepare a Patient for an Angiography

An angiography is used to take an x-ray of the body's arteries to determine if there is narrowing of the blood vessels or a blockage. A catheter is used to spread dye through the blood in order to produce a contrast x-ray. The angiography procedure is normally scheduled in advance, and the patient must follow the preparation instructions provided by his doctor.

Things You'll Need

• Current medications
• Medical history

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Instructions

• 1

  Refrain from eating anything after midnight the day before your angiography, particularly if it is scheduled for the morning. Doctors may allow you to eat a light breakfast early in the morning if the procedure is scheduled for later in the afternoon. The exact fasting preparation will vary depending on the doctor.

• 2

  Collect any medication you are taking and bring it with you to the angiography. Bring the prescription bottle; do not put the medication into another container. The prescription bottle contains all of the important information the doctor needs. Check with the doctor when scheduling the angiography to determine if you should not take your medication that day.

• 3

  Provide your medical history to the doctor and let her know about any allergies. Before the angiography, the doctor will check your vital signs and perform a general exam.

• 4

  Sign the consent form that is given to you at the hospital. This form states that you have been informed about the procedure and other relevant information. After you sign the consent form, you can still ask any questions you might have about the procedure.