Resources

I'm Scheduled for a Test

A diagnostic test gives us deeper insight into the nature of your condition. We're working to help you feel better, and this is the next step in the process.

Prepare by selecting the diagnostic test for which you're scheduled below:

• Stress Test with Nuclear Heart Scan
• Echocardiogram
• 24-Hour Holter Monitor
• Doppler Ultrasound Arterial Systems Legs (ABI)
• Venous Study
• Carotid Artery Ultrasound
• Renal Artery Ultrasound
• Abdominal Aortic Ultrasound

Stress Test with Nuclear Heart Scan

The Stress Test is designed to check for changes in your heart while you exercise.

Prepare for the Test

• Avoid caffeine 12 hours before the test.
• Discontinue beta blockers 12 hours before the test.
  • The most common beta blockers are Atenolol, Lopressor, Metoprolol, Toprol, and Bystolic.
• Do not eat or drink 8 hours before the test.
• Bring comfortable running shorts and sneakers.
• Notify the doctor of any chest pain before, during, or after the test.
• Allow approximately 4 hours for the entire test completion.

Learn More

Check out Exercise Electrocardiogram in our Patient Library for more information.

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram (also called an echo) is a type of ultrasound test that uses high-frequency sound waves that produce an "echo" as they bounce off the different parts of your heart to create moving pictures of your heart that can be seen on a video screen.

Prepare for the Test

• It is not necessary to hold medication or change dietary habits prior to this test.

Learn More

Check out Echocardiogram in our Patient Library for more information.

24-Hour Holter Monitor

This device records the activity of your heart continuously throughout a 24 hour period.

Prepare for the Test

• Perform your usual and daily activity.
• Note any symptoms on the diary provided.
• It's not necessary to hold any medication.

Learn More

Check out Ambulatory Electrocardiogram in our Patient Library for more information.

Doppler Ultrasound Arterial System of the Arms or Legs (ABI)

This test enables us to use sound waves to detect the presence of an arterial blockage in your upper or lower body.

Prepare for the Test

• Please wear comfortable clothing, as you may need to partially undress.

Venous Study

This test enables us to detect the presence of blood clots in the veins.

Prepare for the Test

• No specific dress or medication change is required.

Carotid Artery Ultrasound

This test enables us dectect blockages in the carotid (neck) arteries; it plays an important role in stroke prevention.

Prepare for the Test

• No specific preparation is required..

Renal Artery Ultrasound

This test allows us to evaluate a potential blockage in the renal artery, which may be a cause of high blood pressure (hypertension).

Prepare for the Test

• Do not eat or drink 12 hours before the test.
• However, take all medications as usual with a small amount of water if necessary.

 

Abdominal Aortic Ultrasound

This test allows us to evaluate potential bulging in your abdominal aorta, known as an aneurysm. If left undetected, abdominal aortic aneurysms can be fatal.

Prepare for the Test

• Do not eat or drink 12 hours before the test.
• However, take all medications as usual with a small amount of water if necessary.