Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory

Cardiac Cath Lab
CMH, West Tower, 3rd Floor
Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(816) 234-3256
FAX (816) 855-1773

General Instructions:

Do not give any medications to your child the morning of the procedure.
Call if your child seems ill with a cold or other problem.

What to bring:
Quiet activity things (books, tapes, a favorite toy).

What to expect:
You and your child may be anxious about the procedure. This is expected.
Your child (unless a very small infant or very ill) will likely be given a mild sedative prior to going to the catheterization laboratory. The medication may be given by mouth, in a shot or after an intravenous line (IV) has been started. Ask your doctor or nurse what has been planned.
Tell the staff about any known medication allergies.
Your child may still be awake when he or she goes to the catheterization laboratory. If the child remains awake or is frightened they will be given more medication as needed.
The procedure is expected to take several hours. Ask the staff when you should expect to hear from them and when the child will be in recovery.

What to expect after the procedure:
Your child may continue to be sleepy for a while. Sometimes the medications make the child ”hyper“ or tearful when they are wearing off.
When your child is awake and alert he or she may have clear liquids such as water or juice to drink. If that is tolerated (no vomiting) a regular diet may be started.
Your child will be expected to keep still and keep his or her legs straight for several hours after the procedure. Your encouragement is helpful. They may have to use a bed pan or urinal if potty trained.
Books or tapes or other quiet activities may help the time pass by more quickly.
Your child will be observed for 4-6 hours after the procedure and will be checked frequently by the staff. If your child is awake, tolerating fluids and having no problems he or she will be discharged to home.

For any additional questions about scheduling, and when not to allow your child to eat (or other cardiac catheterization related issues), please call Karen at (816) 234-3256.