Cardiology Associates of Altoona
Patient Pre-Procedure Instructions
Venous Compression Syndrome and Arterial Procedures:
- Alert scheduling staff of any anti-coagulation or blood thinner medication you may be taking including, but not limited to, Coumadin, Warfarin, Pradaxa, Xarelto, and Eliquis.
- You may continue to take Plavix, Effient, Brilinta, and/or aspirin.
- If you are a diabetic and taking Metformin or any products containing Metformin, you will be instructed to stop this medication prior to your procedure according to staff instruction.
- If you are taking a diuretic (water pill), you will be instructed to hold medication the morning of the procedure.
- Notify staff if you have had a previous allergic reaction to x-ray dye/iodine or shellfish. Allergies may include itching, hives, and/or difficulty breathing.
- It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing, such as sweatpants and a loose-fitting shirt.
- You will not be able to drive for two days following the procedure. A driver to and from the office is required. The driver does not need to remain at the office while the procedure is being completed. Your total time at the office will take from 3 to 5 hours, on average.
Nuclear Stress Test:
- Nuclear stress testing is with pictures of your heart which requires the use of radioactive medications AND the actual stress portion of the test can be either with exercise or by the use of medication.
- Total testing time in our office is approximately three hours
- No caffeine 12 hours prior to your scheduled testing including decaf products and chocolate.
- FAST 4 hours prior to the test. Diabetics may eat ½ piece of toast and drink ½ glass of juice within those 4 hours if needed.
- DO NOT take any medications the day of the test, with the exception of thyroid and acid reflux medications. These may be taken as directed, unless otherwise indicated. Please contact our office if you have any questions regarding a specific medication. Please bring a detailed list of all medications that you are currently taking.
- Contact the office if you are taking Aggrenox, Persantine, Dipyridamole, or Theophylline.
- IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL OUR NUCLEAR DEPT. AT (814) 942-2411, EXTENSION 4318.
Non-Nuclear Stress Test / Stress Echocardiography:
- Hold beta blockers the day of the test, but take all other medications.
- Do not eat two to three hours prior to your scheduled appointment time.
- Wear appropriate clothing and rubber soled shoes. (You will be walking on a treadmill.)
- Testing time is 30 to 60 minutes.
Tilt Table Testing:
- Your test may take 1 1/2 hours to complete. You will need a driver.
- You may have a liquid breakfast, but nothing to eat or drink six hours prior to your scheduled test.
- Take all medications except beta blockers and diuretics.
- Bring a current list of medications.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Notify the office if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
Echocardiography:
- No preparation required.
Carotid, Venous, Arterial Ultrasounds and PVRs:
- No preparation required.
Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound:
- Nothing to eat or drink six hours prior to your scheduled test
- No smoking or chewing of gum the day of your scheduled test
Renal Ultrasound:
- Nothing to eat or drink after midnight
- No smoking or chewing of gum after midnight
- Take your medications with water.
Venous ablation:
- Take your medications as directed.
- You may eat normally the day of your procedure.
- Drink plenty of water.
- You do not need a driver.
New and Established Office Visits:
- Bring your current insurance cards along with any co pay, if applicable.
- Bring a current list of your medications.
- Prior to your scheduled visit, please determine whether you will need refill prescriptions.
If you have any questions or require clarification, contact Cardiology Associates of Altoona at: (814) 942-2411.