At our center, every procedure is carefully planned to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of our patients. From pre-procedure instructions to post-care support, we are committed to guiding you through each step. Our experienced medical team will provide clear directions and personalized care to help you prepare and recover with confidence. Your health is our top priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

How to Get Ready for Your Procedure

At Southpark Heart & Vascular Center, we want you to feel informed and at ease before your procedure. This guide explains what to expect and how to prepare so everything goes as smoothly and safely as possible.

Before Your Appointment

Stay Hydrated & Follow Any Pre-Testing Instructions

  • Drink clear liquids the day before your visit, unless your care team advises differently.
  • If your physician orders any tests (like lab work or imaging), please complete them by the date provided. Our team will reach out if any follow-up is needed.

    • Plan Ahead
  • Confirm the date, time, and arrival instructions during your pre-procedure call.
  • Arrange transportation and support for after your procedure — you’ll need an adult family member or friend to take you home and stay with you for the rest of the day.

    • On the Day of Your Procedure

    Fasting Guidelines

  • Avoid all food and drinks starting at midnight or as instructed. Taking a sip of water for certain medications may be okay — your doctor will tell you which ones.
    • General Reminders
  • Please do not smoke or use tobacco products for at least a full day before your appointment.
  • Alcohol and recreational drugs should be avoided 24 hours prior to your procedure.
  • Notify your care team in advance if you have any allergies, especially to contrast dyes or seafood.

    • What to Bring with You

  • Health insurance card and photo ID
  • A full list of your current medications (include doses)
  • Any heart device cards or medical documents
  • Contact information for your emergency contact
  • Eyeglasses and hearing aids if you use them
  • Any legal health directives you’d like on file (we do not recognize DNR orders in this setting)

    • What to Wear

  • Dress in comfortable clothes that are easy to change in and out of.
  • Leave jewelry, valuables, and unnecessary items at home.
  • Please remove nail polish from fingers and toes.
  • Expect to remove removable dental work, contact lenses, or body piercings before your procedure.

    • Travel & Pick-Up

  • For your safety, you cannot drive yourself home or use ride shares or public transportation alone.
  • A trusted adult must drive you and stay with you for at least the first night after your procedure.

    • Medication Reminders

  • Keep taking your usual medications unless told otherwise — some prescriptions may need to be paused or adjusted.
  • Do not take any “water pills” or diuretics on procedure day unless your physician approves.
  • Herbal supplements are typically stopped one week before your appointment.
  • If you are on blood thinners or diabetes medicines, your care team will give you specific stop dates — follow these closely.
  • If you wear an insulin pump, your doctor will explain any adjustments needed.

    • Changing or Canceling Your Procedure

    If you need to reschedule, please contact our office as early as possible — ideally 24 hours in advance — so we can adjust your care plan safely.

    No Surprises Act

    The No Surprises Act protects people covered under group and individual health plans from receiving surprise medical bills for most emergency services, out-of-network care at in-network facilities, and out-of-network air ambulance services. It also establishes a fair dispute resolution process and ensures that uninsured patients receive a good faith cost estimate before care.

    Since 2022, these protections ban the most common types of surprise bills. If you’re uninsured or choose not to use insurance, you can request a good faith estimate of care costs before your visit and dispute charges if they exceed that estimate.

    Questions?

    Our staff is here to guide you through every step. If you’re unsure about any instructions, please reach out — we’re happy to help! 📞 Call us anytime at 804-324-2000