INSTRUCTIONS FOR STRESS ECHO TEST

Date of Appointment: ______________ Time: ____________ Location:_________

Dear

Your doctor has ordered a Stress Echocardiogram. This test will give your physician valuable information about the blood flow to your heart muscle and the performance of your heart under onditions of rest, exercise, and postexercise (recovery).

On the day of the test, please refrain from caffeinated drinks, but you should eat a light breakfast (or lunch), and take any medications as you usually do unless your physician instructed otherwise. You should wear sneakers or rubbersoled shoes and comfortable, loosefitting clothing. (We do not have facilities for changing and washing in our office).

At the beginning of the procedure, the technician performing the exam will apply electrodes to your chest which will be connected to an electrocardiogram monitor so your heart action can be observed closely. The exercise test will begin by walking on the treadmill at a slow speed and slight elevation. Every three minutes, the treadmill speed and grade will be increased. Your blood pressure will be monitored throughout the test, as will your cardiogram. Prior to and immediately following the exercise portion, ultrasound images will be taken of your heart's function.

As you exercise, the technician and physician will be looking for any changes in your cardiogram, and will be aware of any symptoms you may have. After the walking/running is completed, you will have your blood pressure and heart rate monitored for approximately ten minutes at rest. At this time, the ultrasound images and EKG's will be analyzed and the results will be given to you.

If you have had an electrocardiogram performed by your physician within the last three months, please bring a copy with you or ask your physician to send a copy to our office.

Please feel free to call our office (203) 7892272 if you have any questions about this procedure.

If you have not been a patient in our office previously, please plan to arrive a few minutes early to complete a short questionnaire. Payment is expected at the time of service unless other arrangements are made in advance. We accept cash, personal check, or MasterCard/VISA.

Cardiology Associates of New Haven, P.C.