Q:
How do I find out my test results?
A: Your doctor will have the results of your test
within one to two days. Your doctor will xplain
the results, talk with you about an exercise program
and, if necessary, suggest further testing or treatment.
Q: How do I prepare for the
EKG Stress Test?
A: Although your doctor will provide specific instructions,
the basic guidelines are as follows:
-
Do not eat for 2 hours before
the test
-
Wear loose fitting clothing
-
Wear flat, rubber-soled shoes
or sneakers
-
Women should wear bras (not
under-wire) and avoid wearing long nightgowns
You may also need to avoid certain
medications before the test. Please check with your
doctor.
Q: How long will the EKG Stress
Test take?
A: The test usually takes between 30 and 40 minutes.
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to allow for check-in
with the Outpatient Department.
Q: What are the benefits of
having the EKG Stress Test?
A: It can often detect heart disorders missed by
an EKG taken while at rest. Because the heart beats
faster and the body needs more oxygen while exercising,
an EKG Stress Test can provide more specific information
about the functioning of the heart muscle and arteries.
Q: What happens during the
EKG Stress Test?
A: During the test, a specially trained technician
or nurse places electrodes on the patient's chest.
The cables or "leads" from the electrodes
are connected to an electrocardiograph recorder.
The patient is asked to step on a treadmill or stationary
bike and exercise according to the doctor's instructions.
The technician takes an EKG every minute and monitors
the patient's blood pressure and pulse during the
exercise.
A physician will be present at all times during
the test. If you have any symptoms, you will alert
the physician or technician. A cardiologist or your
other physician will evaluate the results of the
EKG and determine the presence or absence of a heart
condition. |