Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about cardiac tamponade:

1. Am I at high-risk for this condition?
   
   
2. What tests will I receive to diagnose cardiac tamponade?
   
   
3. What may have caused this condition?
   
   
4. What type of cardiac tamponade do I have?
   
   
5. What are my treatment options?
   
   
6. What are the risks associated with these treatments?
   
   
7. Even if my pericardiocentesis was successful, can there be permanent damage to the pericardium?
   
   
8. What are the chances of re-accumulation of fluid?
   
   
9. Which symptoms indicate a medical emergency?
   
   
10. What can I do to prevent cardiac tamponade?
    
    
11. How will my condition be monitored after treatment?
    
    
12. Are my children at risk for cardiac tamponade?