Nuclear TREADMILL Stress Test Information

I.                   Preparation upon arrival in the Nuclear Medicine Department

1.         The test will be completely explained to you before the technologist begins.  The technologist will then ask you a few pertinent questions and look over your medication list.   If you have any questions about the exam, please feel free to ask the technologist at any time.

2.       All patients will receive an IV prior to the test.  The technologist will give medications for the test through the IV.

II.          Rest Imaging

      1.   You will receive an injection of a small amount of a radioisotope through your IV. 

            2.         This radioisotope will need to circulate for approximately 45 min – 1 hr. 

                  3.   The first set of images will then be acquired.  These images will take approximately 20-30 minutes.

III.       Exercise Stress Test

1.       You will be placed on EKG monitoring equipment to allow the stress personnel to monitor you during the test

2.       You will be asked to walk the treadmill to achieve the appropriate heart rate.

3.       The treadmill speed and elevation will increase in gradual steps every 3 minutes.

4.       If you achieve target heart rate, you will receive a second injection of the radioisotope and then will be asked to walk at least one more minute on the treadmill.

5.       If you are unable to reach the desired heart rate, the treadmill test will be terminated, and your physician will be notified.  Another diagnostic test might be ordered at this time.

IV.               Stress Imaging

1.       After you complete the treadmill, a second set of 20-30 minute images will be acquired after a short wait period for recovery.

v      During and after your stress, immediately report any symptoms (chest discomfort, heart flutters, dizziness, weakness, etc.) you may have to the cardiovascular technician or nuclear medicine technologist.