Exams Performed in the Echocardiography (ECHO) Lab Echocardiography (Echo) Lab | Page 15

• Your test will take place in the Echo Lab. The clinical care area is under physician
supervision.
• You will be given a hospital gown to wear and asked to remove your clothing from the
waist up.
• A cardiac sonographer will gently rub 10 small areas on your chest and place
special patches or electrodes on these areas. These electrodes are attached to an
electrocardiograph (ECG) monitor that displays your heart’s electrical activity.
• Before you start exercising, lab personnel will perform a resting EKG, measure your
resting heart rate, and take your blood pressure.
• The lab personnel will oversee your exercise on a treadmill or stationary cycle. You will
slowly but will gradually increase the intensity of exercise. You will be asked to continue
exercising until exhaustion.
• Lab personnel will ask how you are feeling at regular intervals. Please tell them if
you feel chest, arm, or jaw discomfort, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, or other
concerning symptoms.
• Lab personnel will watch for changes on the ECG monitor that suggest the test should
be stopped.
• When you cannot exercise any longer, notify the team, and the treadmill or bike will be
stopped.
• After the test, your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG will continue to be monitored
until the levels are returning to normal.
How will I feel during the test?
You will be encouraged to exercise until exhaustion. It is normal for your heart rate, blood
pressure, breathing rate, and perspiration to increase.
How long does the test take?
The entire test will take about 60 minutes. The actual exercise time is usually between
seven and 12 minutes. Once the test is complete, you will be allowed to get dressed and
go home or to other scheduled appointments.
How do I get the results of my test?
After a cardiologist has reviewed your test, the results will be entered into your electronic
medical record. Your physician will have access to the results and will discuss them with
you.