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• Baseline history and physical; 12-lead ECG; CBC; chemistry, including Creatinine and INR if taking Warfarin; CXR; vital signs; neurologic assessment; allergies, especially to IV or X-ray dye, shellfish, any medication allergies, or rubber/latex products; and distal pulse assessments.

A modified Allen’s test or plethysmography is done on the patient’s wrist to assess for the ulnar and radial blood flow if trans-radial approach is attempted. This is done by using the pulse oximetry probe to visualize the pulse ox wave form on the monitor. The radial and ulnar arteries are compressed together, flattening the waveform, then one artery at a time released, noting the quick return of the pulse oximeter waveform on the radial and ulnar arteries. The goal is to avoid radial artery occlusion and ischemia to the hand by making sure the ulnar artery will provide collateral flow if this complication should arise.