Interventional Pain Management Preparation Instructions -Cervical/Thoracic/Lumbar Facet Preparations

PLEASE REVIEW
Arrive 30 minutes early. Late arrivals may be rescheduled. To cancel or reschedule, call 519-537-2381.
– Procedure-related medication charges will be billed to the patient.
– Payment is due the same day at the cashier.
– The facility is fragrance-free.
– Ensure you have a translator if needed.

PREPARATION
– Fast for 2 hours before your appointment.
– Diabetic patients will have blood sugar checked and may be rescheduled if elevated. Consult your primary care provider about diabetes management.
– If you have an active infection or took antibiotics in the last 7 days, your appointment may be rescheduled. Notify the hospital 48 hours in advance if applicable.
– Ensure you have a driver; otherwise, your appointment may be rescheduled.
– Bring a list of all CURRENT medications.
– At the time of your appointment please inform the nurse of any drug allergies, X-ray dye allergies, or history of fainting with injections.

BLOOD THINNERS AND MEDICATION:
– Lumbar Spine Facets: Continue blood thinners, including Aspirin.
– Cervical/Thoracic Facets: Blood thinners may need to be paused. Consult your primary care provider for guidance. Aspirin may be paused 6 days prior, Clopidogrel 7 days, Apixaban 3 days. Do not stop blood thinners without physician approval. Patients may continue other medications.

POST PROCEDURE:
– Arrange for a driver post injection and avoid driving for 24 hours.
– Wait 8 hours post injection to breastfeed.