Westwood Cardiology Associates, P.A.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR NUCLEAR CARDIOLOGY STRESS TEST

Dear _______________________:

Your appointment for a nuclear stress test is scheduled for _______ a.m. on __________ at our Hackensack office, 20 Prospect Ave., Suite 807, Hackensack, NJ, telephone number (201) 342-7727

Please read and follow these instructions carefully:

1. Nothing to eat or drink except water 2 hours prior to the test.

2. Bring a list of your medications. Check with your doctor if any medications need to be stopped prior to the test. Most medications can be taken at their usual times on the day of the test.

3. For an exercise stress test wear comfortable or exercise clothes with sneakers or rubber soled shoes.

For the chemical stress test comfortable clothing is recommended. You will have to remove your shirt or blouse to be connected to the cardiac monitor. No caffeinated or decaffeinated beverages, or food containing caffeine, 24 hours prior to the test.

4. We will call to confirm this appointment 2 days prior. If for any reason you cannot keep your appointment you must call the office and cancel the day before your test. The radioactive isotopes are specifically ordered for you and must be destroyed if not used. If 24 hours notice is not given, you will be responsible for the cost of the isotopes ($150).

There are several protocols used to perform nuclear stress tests. Plan to spend between 2 and 3 hours in the office. There is a period of time between different parts of the test. Bring something to read or occupy your time. It is a also good idea to bring along a snack that has a heavy fat content, i.e. an egg or cheese sandwich, yogurt, or a sweet roll. Also bring milk or another beverage to your liking. Some patients may have to return for a second day to complete all the diagnostic pictures.

A licensed nuclear technician will thoroughly explain the test when you arrive. A small intravenous catheter will be placed in a vein in your arm for the injections. There are no known side effects to the radioactive isotopes. Please feel free to ask questions before or during the test. When under the camera for the pictures it is important not to move.

A nuclear cardiology stress test is a very sophisticated and technically advanced procedure to diagnose and estimate the extent of coronary artery disease (blockages in the arteries going to the heart muscle). The results of the test will help your doctor to accurately recommend the proper treatment for you.