Informed consent is obtained from the patient.
The patient is NPO prior to the procedure if possible, although this procedure is often done on an emergency basis. All medications are continued. An intravenous line is begun before the procedure in order to ensure that the patient is well hydrated and to facilitate the administration of any medications required during the procedure. The patient with chart is sent on a stretcher to the angiography suite when notified. During the time, the patient should remain flat in bed with the legs straight.