Exams Performed in the Echocardiography (ECHO) Lab Echocardiography (Echo) Lab | Page 7

DO NOT take your diabetes medication, and skip a meal before the test.
If you own a glucose monitor, please check your blood sugar levels before and shortly after
the test. If you think your blood sugar is low, tell the lab personnel immediately. Plan to eat
and take your oral diabetes medication after your test is complete.
Plan for someone to drive you home
You will need someone to drive you home. You should not drive until the day after the
procedure. The sedating medications can cause drowsiness, lethargy and impaired
judgment, making driving and operating heavy machinery unsafe.
What should I wear on the day of the test?
You may wear anything you like. You will change into a hospital gown before the test.
Please do not bring valuables.
What happens during the test?
• You should arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
• Before the test, a health care provider will explain the procedure in detail, including
possible complications or side effects. Please take this opportunity to ask any questions
you may have.
• Your echo 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.
• Your blood pressure, ECG, and blood oxygen levels will be monitored throughout the
test.
• You will be given an anesthetic (pain relieving medication) solution to gargle that will
numb your throat. A nurse will also spray an anesthetic at the back of your throat.
• A health care provider will put sedative medications into your IV to help you relax. You
may feel lethargic or drowsy.
• An oral protection device will be placed in your mouth to protect your teeth.
• An oral suction device will be placed in your mouth to remove excess secretions.
• The doctor will insert a thin, lubricated endoscope into your mouth, down your throat,
and into your esophagus. This part of the test lasts only a few seconds and may be
somewhat uncomfortable but should never painful. The endoscope does not interfere
with your breathing. You may be asked to swallow to help the tube go down.