Before Your Procedure

Before You Leave Home for the WakeMed Heart Center

• No eating or drinking after midnight unless your doctor instructs you differently. If your procedure is scheduled in the afternoon, you may have clear liquids until 8 am, but please clarify with your doctor or nurse before doing so.
• Ask your doctor which medicines you should take the morning of the procedure.
• If you have diabetes, ask your doctor about medications/insulin you may be taking.
• If you take Coumadin®‚ you may need to stop taking it two or three days before your procedure. Ask your doctor about taking Coumadin.
• Bring all medications that you are currently taking in their original containers with the pharmacy label attached with you the day of your procedure.
• Pack a small bag with personal care items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, comb or hairbrush, or razor. Leave jewelry, money and other valuables at home.
• Bring copies of a Living Will and/or Advance Directives

• No smoking before your procedure. Smoking causes the veins and arteries to become small and tight.

Arriving at the WakeMed Heart and Vascular Center

Parking is available for patients in the P2 parking deck adjacent to the Heart Center facility. There is room at the main entrance for patient drop-off and pick-up. Our Public Safety staff will be there to assist you if necessary.

Check-in at the Main Desk in the Heart Center lobby at the time you were told to arrive. You will need to bring a photo ID (such as a driver's license) and your insurance information. Read and sign a consent form giving permission to the doctor to perform the procedure and treat blockages. If you have any questions about the form, please ask your nurse.