Cardiac Stress Testing
1. Eat liquids or very light food before you come in, as you will be working pretty hard and we don't want you to become sick and vomit, it tends to confuse things.
2. Dress so as to be able to walk comfortably. Wear tennis shoes if you have them, or shoes that you can be comfortable in.
3. Usually I would say to take your medications as prescribed. However, if you are on insulin you should discuss this with me. Also, some heart medicines could be a concern, such as beta-blockers like atenolol or metoprolol, which I may want you to hold until after the test. If you are on breathing medicines, by all means take these on the prescribed schedule.
4. Consider wearing a loose blouse or sweater if you are female. We can usually allow you to wear a top over the wire set up once it is placed and functioning properly.
5. You should be able to walk out and drive home successfully after the test, but you may be a bit tired. Having someone with you would be a good idea if you are at all concerned.
6. The procedure takes about 15-20 minutes to get set up, then around 15-30 minutes to 'run' the test. So, plan to show up about a half an hour before the test in order to fill out paper work and then get hooked up to the machinery.
7. I will generally have results for you immediately, so plan on chatting afterwards for a few minutes.
See you at the Respiratory Therapy Department at Silverton Hospital !