treadmill stress test:

This information is provided exclusively for Queen's Heart patients. Please review this infomation carefully before arriving for your test.

A treadmill stress test is used to study how your heart responds to exercise. Before the test your exercise capacity is based on your predicted maximum heart rate which is based on your age.

During exercise your heart will beat faster to provide oxygen rich blood and nutrients to working muscles. The increased work during exercise is useful for determining the blood supply to your heart.

The stress test is useful for determining the onset of chest pain, arrhythmias, and evaluates how well your heart works during physical activitiy.

You will be asked to walk on a treadmill (this is a moving belt). During the test the speed and incline of the treadmill will change at regular time intervals. The staff will let you know when a change is coming up.

Your heart will be monitored during the test using electrocardiogram (EKG) to determine your heart rate and any changes in your hearts rhythm.

When you are walking on the treadmill, please let the staff know if you experience problems such as chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, pain into your jaw or back, and dizziness.

Approximately 45 minutes to 1 1/2 hours. You will be asked to stay for approximately 30 minutes following the test to assure you don't have any problems such as chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, pain into your jaw or back, and dizziness.

Please do not smoke tobacco 4 hours prior to this test as it may cause abnormal results. Also, do not do any unusual physical activity up to 12 hours before the test. Examples are: long distance running, biking or swimming.

Please do not eat or drink anything for at least 4 hours before the test.

Wear exercise clothing, such as gym or walking shorts. We will be happy to provide you with hospital pajamas should you forget your exercise clothes. Comfortable walking or jogging shoes should be worn rather than slippers or bare feet to protect you from developing blisters. One-piece clothing and dresses are not recommended.

Bring any paperwork and questionnaires your doctor gave you. Bring a copy of an EKG/ECG done within the last 2 weeks. If you cannot get one from your doctor's office we will do one before the test. Bring any medications you are taking.

Please ask your doctor which medicines you should take before the test.

The results of your test will be sent to your doctor who will discuss them with you.

Yes, although you may ask someone to come with you if you don't feel comfortable driving afterwards.

You will be asked to stay for approximately 30 minutes following the test to assure you don't have any problems such as chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, pain into your jaw or back, and dizziness. Should you have any of these feeling when you return home please call your doctor and 9-1-1.

Yes.

Please call the Queen's Pre-Registration Department at 808.543.6520 three days before your test to register. They will ask you questions that are needed for your registration. Please have your medical insurance cards and social security number ready.

On the day of the test you may go directly to Queen's Heart, on the 3rd floor of the Pauahi Building, located directly above the Emergency Room.

Call Queen's Heart at 808.547.4535