Echocardiogram instructions
This PDF will tell you more about why you are having an echocardiogram, how to prepare (including what to wear), and the number to call if you have questions.
Echocardiogram instructions
Exercise stress echo instructions
This PDF will tell you more about why you are having this test, how to prepare (including what to wear), and what medications you should NOT TAKE the day of your test.
Exercise stress echo instructions
Exercise treadmill test (EKG) instructions
This PDF will tell you more about why you are having this test, how to prepare (including what to wear), and what medications you should NOT TAKE the day of your test.
Exercise treadmill test (EKG) instructions
Abdominal aorta and renal artery ultrasound instructions
This ultrasound test involves no needle sticks or intravenous catheters, BUT PREPARATION STARTS THE DAY BEFORE! It is also important that you take nothing by mouth for 8 hours prior to the test. The PDF linked below will tell you more about how to prepare, and who to call if you have questions.
Ultrasound instructions
Nuclear stress test
A nuclear stress test measures blood flow to your heart at rest and while at work. The test will usually take two
sets of pictures of your heart – one at rest and another after your heart is stressed. After an IV and injection, we will take a resting picture of your heart. For the stress portion, you will either walk on a treadmill or be administered a medicine to stress your heart
Nuclear stress test instructions
Tilt table test
This test helps diagnose unexplained fainting by changing your body posture from lying to standing. The technician will have you lie flat on a special table and will gently place safety straps around your body to hold you in place. The technician will measure your heart rate, blood pressure, and start an IV line in your hand or arm. After a period of about 10-15 minutes, the table will be inclined to raise you to a standing position to see if the change in position causes you to faint.
Tilt table test instructions
Heart Catheterization
Please note that heart catheterization procedures are performed at Atrium Health’s Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute or Novant Health. Please remember to NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING after midnight before your procedure. If you are taking Eliquis, please stop taking it for two days before your procedure; you may restart taking it a day or two afterward.