Exercise Tolerance Test (ETT) or Stress Test

What is an ETT or Stress Test?

An ETT evaluates the patient's heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure during maximum exercise. During exercise the patient is monitored using an automatic blood pressure cuff and cardiac telemetry system. The patient starts out walking on a treadmill with a 0 slope and around 1.7mph. Every three minutes the slope and speed increase until the patient reaches his maximum heart rate or is physically unable to continue. A physician is present during the test to interpret cardiac abnormalities and determine when to stop the exam.

Cardiolite Stress Test

A cardiolite stress test utilizes nuclear medicine technology to get a better picture of the heart. Prior to stress test you will have "resting" pictures of your heart taken in the nuclear medicine department. Sometimes this is scheduled the same day as your stress test and sometimes a day or two before your stress test. Your physician should provide this information to you when they arrange for your test. Immediately before the test starts, a nuclear medicine technologist will insert a temporary IV called an INT into a vein in the arm. This IV allows the technologist to inject a radioisotope during maximum exercise and will be removed following the test. Approximately 1 ½ hours after your test you will return to the nuclear medicine department to have a second set of pictures taken.

Persantine Cardiolite Stress Test

A persantine cardiolite stress test is available for persons who are unable to walk on the treadmill because or pre-existing physical conditions such as hip or joint problems. An IV is placed in the arm and a solution is injected which chemically speeds up the heart. The patient's heart rate increases gradually as if they were exercising.

Why does my doctor want me to have a stress test?

Patients complaining of chest pain, especially on exertion, need to be evaluated for the presence of heart disease. If you have heart disease there are often changes in the electrical activity of the heart during exercise.
These changes can be seen on the telemetry monitor, as well as, the printed report. If there are significant changes, your physician may recommend additional testing or suggest that you be seen by a cardiologist.

Some patients who are not having symptoms often have a stress test as part of a routine physical or are required by their employer to have stress test regularly to ensure they are physically fit to perform their duties.

What do I need to do before I come in for my test?

1. Make sure you have you physician's order. You cannot be admitted for the test without an order. Present
your orders to the admission clerk and she will give you additional paperwork to bring to our department.
2. Do not eat or drink after midnight.
3. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for walking.
4. If you are on beta-blockers do not take them the morning of your test.