Electrocardiograph tests
If you are having tests or procedures done at St. Luke's, please
read this before your visit.
Electrocardiograph tests
Electrocardiograph tests
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
An ECG or EKG provides a graphic record of the heart's electrical activity, including heart rate and rhythm, while the patient is lying down. By monitoring electrical activity, it may be possible to diagnose an abnormality or rule out causes of a heart problem. It involves attaching 10 (or sometimes 12) recording leads to the skin with an adhesive patch. One lead, or electrode, attaches to each arm and leg and
6 are placed on the chest around the heart.
These sensors have connecting wires that feed information into a recording machine. A signal-averaged ECG is more sensitive and can help identify patients at risk of certain dangerous arrythmias or heart rhythm disorders.
It may be necessary to shave the areas where the electrodes are placed. An ECG only takes a few minutes and has no side effects, although some people may experience a slight skin irritation when the leads are removed.
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Exercise stress test
The exercise stress test is a type of electrocardiogram that measures the electrical activity of the heart while the patient is walking on a treadmill or riding an exercise bike. The test usually takes 30-45 minutes, including about 10 minutes of exercise (to the point of exhaustion).
The exercise stress test helps detect heart conditions that may not be present when the body is at rest. The test can help determine if further testing is necessary because of possible coronary artery disease. It is also used to see if the heart is receiving adequate blood flow as activity levels increase and to determine if a cardiac treatment plan has been effective. Heart rate and blood pressure are monitored during the entire test.
Patients should wear comfortable walking or athletic shoes and comfortable loose-fitting clothing. Do not eat or drink anything except water for four hours prior to the test. Discuss with the physician what medications can be taken before the test, as some affect the heart rate.
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Metabolic exercise stress test
This test utilizes an electrocardiogram monitor to record the electrical activity of the heart during exercise, such as walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bicycle. Electrode sensors are attached to the chest and connected to the monitor. While exercising, a nose clip will keep nostrils closed as only breathing through a special mouthpiece is permitted. Exercise continues until the point of exhaustion, usually about 10 minutes. Blood pressure, heart rate and electrical activity are continually monitored while the patient cools down and levels return to normal.
In addition to measurements taken during the electrocardiogram, the special mouthpiece helps measure lung capacity and fitness. It can be determined if shortness of breath or other symptoms are because of poor fitness or a disorder such as lung or heart disease. The test can also be used to develop an effective fitness program, determine if surgery is appropriate or evaluate the patient's current cardiac treatment program.
Avoid products that contain caffeine for 12 hours prior to the test. Except
for water, do not drink or eat anything for 4 hours before the test. Avoid smoking the day of the test. Wear comfortable walking or athletic shoes and comfortable loose-fitting clothing. Discuss with the physician what medications can be taken prior to the test.
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Tilt test
This procedure is also known as the head-up tilt test, head upright tilt test and tilt table test. It is used to determine why fainting spells occur and record symptoms, blood pressure, heart rhythm and other measurements with position changes. The tilt test involves lying on a special bed that is then tilted at different angles for specific periods of time - always with the head up. The patient is awake during the test. Be sure to tell the medical staff if symptoms, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision or irregular heartbeat, occur. The entire tilt test takes about 75 minutes. Sometimes it is repeated with the addition of a medication that acts as a heart stimulant.
For 4 hours prior to the test, do not eat or drink anything except water. A sip of water may be taken with necessary medications. An IV is inserted into a vein in the hand or arm so that fluids or medications can be dispensed during the test. The patient is connected to a number of monitors, including an
electrocardiogram machine.
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