Exercise Electrocardiogram

What to Expect

What to Do the Night Before

You should not have anything to eat or drink for four hours before the procedure. If your procedure is scheduled for later in the day, you may have a light meal, such as tea, toast, and a small amount of soup. Just be sure to time your meal so that you finish eating by four hours before your procedure time. In addition, you should have not smoke or have anything with caffeine for at least three hours prior to the procedure. Make sure you tell your physician the medications that you are taking, as he/she may want you to hold some or all of your medications before the procedure.

Diagnostic Tests Before the Procedure

You will probably have already had a resting EKG prior to this test. Depending on your condition, you may be instructed to have some blood tests, x-rays, or other tests prior to this procedure.

Scheduling/Registration Information

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Where the Procedure is Done

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Who Performs the Procedure

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Directions to the Hospital

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It is important to arrive at your scheduled time. Your procedure may not begin immediately due to varying lengths of procedures scheduled before your procedure. You will be updated as frequently as possible.

Preparing for the Procedure in the Hospital

• Description of IV, site preparations, and medications which may be administered - No intravenous line (IV) or medication is required for an EKG stress test. You will be asked to remove your shirt or blouse. Women may be asked to remove their bras, as well. Your privacy will be maintained by covering your chest with a gown and by limiting access into the area where the test is being done. If your chest is extremely hairy, small patches may be shaved for electrode placement, as close skin contact is necessary for the most accurate EKG tracing. The skin electrodes will be self-adhering. Your skin may be prepared with a cleaning liquid and scrub pads.
  
  
• Consent forms - Your physician will explain the exercise EKG procedure, its purpose, any risks, and the expected outcome before the procedure. In the testing department, the risks of the procedure will be explained to you again and you will be asked to sign a consent form. You should read through the consent carefully before signing it. If you have any questions or need more information, ask your physician.
  

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