As you prepare for your diagnostic test at Cardiovascular Associates, the following are the most frequently asked questions pertaining to each test. Please take a few moments to review the questions and answers that apply to the test you will be taking in order to make your visit to our offices go as smoothly as possible.

Where will the test take place and how long will it last?
The test will take place in our office. The entire process should take approximately 2 1/2 hours.

When should I arrive for my test?
Please arrive 15-20 minutes prior to your test time.

What should I wear the day of the test?
Please wear a two-piece outfit and comfortable shoes for exercise.

Can I eat or drink anything the day of the test?
Please eat a light meal at least one hour prior to your appointment time.

Can I have my morning coffee or cigarettes that day?
No. We do not want you to have any caffeine or nicotine the day of the test. This also includes chocolate, decaf coffee or colas and teas.

Should I take my medicine that day?
The following are medications that you may need to hold the day of the test:

• Calcium channel-blockers - 24 hrs
• Bronchodilators - 24 hrs
• Nitrates - 12 hrs
• Beta-blockers - 24 hrs
• Aggrenox - 24 hrs

What should I bring with me?
Bring a list of your medications, a referral and/or the prescription from your primary care physician or physician who is ordering the test.

Who will be supervising my test?
You will be supervised by an RN or an Advanced Practice Nurse/Nurse Practioner who has in-depth training in cardiovascular testing. Our Physicians are always available and present throughout the diagnostic lab.

What will happen to me during this Stress Test?
After you check in, you will be brought back to a room. An IV will be started and the electrode patches will be placed on your skin. You will then be injected with a radioactive tracer. After the injection wait approximately 30 min. in the waiting area. Next we will bring you into a room and have you lie on a table. A camera will take resting pictures of your heart. We will then bring you into another room where you will be hooked up to an EKG monitor and will then be asked to walk on a treadmill.

How long do I have to walk on the Treadmill?
We need for you to stay on the treadmill for as long as you are physically able. When you feel as if you can only stay on the treadmill for 1 minute longer let the nurse or technician know so that the technician can inject the radioactive tracer into your IV. Once you are injected with the radioactive tracer you must walk on the treadmill for 1 more minute.

What if I get chest pain or dizzy?
Let the nurse or technician know immediately if you start getting dizzy or start getting chest pain. They will help you get off the treadmill quickly.

When I'm ready to stop should I just jump off?
You should never jump off the treadmill. Let the nurse or technician know you are unable to go any longer. They will slow down the treadmill so you may cool down and get off safely.

What happens after I'm done walking on the treadmill?
We will let you rest while we continue to monitor your EKG and blood pressure, for another 30-40 minutes. After that time we will take one more set of pictures under the camera.

Do I have to follow any special instructions when I get home?
No, just remember to drink plenty of water after you exercise.

When do I get the results?
The doctor that ordered the test or their nurse should call you within 3-5 days. If you do not receive your results after this time, please call the doctor who ordered the test.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call and speak to the testing nurse.

What does this test evaluate?