Clinical Measurements Department - James Paget University ...

Who will be informed of the test
results?
The results and report from your
exercise test will be sent to your
referring doctor.
Are there any risks or
complications involved?
An exercise test is performed to try
and induce your symptoms; therefore
you may experience some discomfort.
Occasionally dizziness may be
experienced due to a change in your
blood pressure.
Serious complications are rare and are
about 1 in 10,000.
The incidence of abnormal heart
rhythm is about 1 in 5,000.
If you have any concerns about the
test you should discuss this with clinical
staff beforehand.
The Clinical Measurements
Department is located in the
Department of Medicine
(ground floor).
We are here
On the day of your appointment
please report to the Clinical
Measurements Department / ECG
reception desk.
The hospital is able to arrange
for an interpreter to assist you
in communicating effectively
with staff during your stay
through INTRAN.
If you need an interpreter or a person to sign, please
let us know.
If you require a large print version
of this booklet, please contact
PALS on 01493 453240
James Paget University Hospitals
NHS Foundation Trust
Clinical
Measurements
Department
Patient Name: …………………………………
Hospital Number: ……………………………
An appointment has been made for you to
attend for an EXERCISE Test
on……………………….......….. at…………….
If you are unable to attend
or have any further questions,
Telephone 01493 452424
Monday to Friday 8:30 – 16:30
CM 4 © April 2003 Revised April 2008, August 2011
Review Date: August 2014 version 3
James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Author: Ruth Mixer, Senior Chief Cardiac Physiologist,
Clinical Measurements Department.
Information for PATIENTS

What is an Exercise Test?
An exercise test is an
electrocardiogram (ECG) that is
recorded whilst you walk on a
treadmill. It allows an assessment to
be made of your heart’s response to
exercise.
Why does the doctor want me to
have an Exercise Test?
This test can help discover if your
symptoms are heart related.
You may have already been diagnosed
with angina. This test can give your
doctor more information to help plan
your treatment.
You may be referred for an exercise
test following a heart attack to help
the doctor assess how well your
heart has recovered. It can also help
to decide what level of exercise is
suitable for you as part of your cardiac
rehabilitation programme.
How long does the Exercise Test
last?
The test usually lasts between 20 – 30
minutes. This includes a preparation
and recovery period.
After the test you may be asked to rest
in the department for a further 30 – 60
minutes.
Preparation for the Exercise Test
Please bring a list of your current
medication with you.
Although you are not required to wear
any particular clothing it is advisable to
wear comfortable, flat shoes.
Continue taking your usual medication
unless your referring doctor has
directed you otherwise.
What does the test involve?
A Cardiac Physiologist will connect
you to the ECG monitor. It may be
necessary to remove hair from your
chest so that a good recording can
be taken. Your blood pressure will
also be recorded at various intervals
throughout.
There will be two members of clinical
staff with you as you walk on the
treadmill.
The treadmill will start very slowly.
As the test progresses the speed and
incline will increase, making it feel as
though you are walking up a hill.
If you experience any symptoms, even
if only mildly, you need to inform the
clinical staff.
The clinical staff will stop the treadmill
by gradually slowing it down when
they have sufficient information, or if
you are unable to continue.