Which of the following is a contraindication to cardiac catheterization?

• A. Uncooperative patient
• B. Pregnancy
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Anemia

Answer: (A)

Cooperation and stillness are essential for safe cardiac catheterization because the procedure relies on precise catheter guidance under fluoroscopic imaging. An uncooperative patient cannot reliably follow instructions, may not tolerate the required positioning or sedation, and is at risk of sudden movements. Movement can injure vessels, cause procedural complications, or degrade image quality, making the test unsafe or non-diagnostic. For this reason, lack of cooperation is considered a contraindication to proceeding with cardiac catheterization.

Pregnancy introduces concerns about radiation exposure to the fetus and potential contrast effects; these risks make it a relative consideration rather than an absolute contraindication, handled with careful risk–benefit assessment and precautions if the procedure is necessary. Hyperkalemia and anemia do not by themselves prevent catheterization; they may require optimization or specific precautions, but they are not outright contraindications.