How Should I Prepare?

Proper preparation helps ensure accurate results and a smooth experience on the day of your test. Please follow the guidance below carefully. If you have any questions before your appointment, contact our reception team on (08) 6102 1655.

Before Your Appointment

• A referral from your GP or specialist is required — please bring it with you on the day.
• Allow approximately 45–60 minutes for the full appointment, including preparation, the test itself, and a short recovery period.
• If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give us at least 24 hours' notice so the time can be offered to another patient.

Food & Drink

• Do not eat for at least 3 hours before the test — a light snack 2–3 hours prior is acceptable if needed.
• Avoid heavy or large meals on the day of your appointment.
• Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks, cola) for at least 4 hours before the test, as it can affect your heart rate.
• Drink water as normal — staying hydrated is encouraged.
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.

Clothing & Personal Items

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy movement — a two-piece outfit is ideal as you will need to undress from the waist up.
• Wear comfortable walking or running shoes with good grip. Thongs, sandals, or slip-on shoes are not suitable.
• Women should wear a supportive bra that can be easily removed or loosened, as electrodes need to be placed on the chest.
• Avoid applying lotions, oils, or powders to your chest on the day of the test, as these can interfere with electrode adhesion.
• Bring a list of all your current medications, including doses and frequency.
• Bring your Medicare card and any relevant concession or private health fund cards.
• Bring your referral letter if it has not already been sent to us.

Medications

• Take your regular medications unless your doctor has specifically advised you to stop or withhold any before the test.
• Some medications (such as beta-blockers) may need to be withheld for 24–48 hours before the test, as they can blunt the heart rate response to exercise. Your referring doctor or our team will advise you if this applies.
• If you use an inhaler for asthma or COPD, bring it with you.
• If you have diabetes, ask your doctor how to manage your blood sugar and diabetes medications around the fasting period.
• If you are unsure about any medication, please check with your referring doctor or call us before your appointment.

On the Day

• Arrive 10–15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to allow for check-in and preparation.
• You will be asked to undress from the waist up and put on a gown that opens at the front.
• Small sticky electrodes will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm throughout the test.
• Your blood pressure, heart rate, and ECG will be monitored continuously before, during, and after exercise.
• The resting echocardiogram is performed first, followed by the treadmill exercise, and then immediate post-exercise imaging.
• Tell the staff immediately if you experience chest pain, dizziness, severe breathlessness, or any discomfort during the test — the test can be stopped at any time.

After the Test

• You will be monitored for a short time after exercise until your heart rate and blood pressure return to baseline.
• You can eat, drink, and resume normal activities unless advised otherwise.
• In most cases, you can drive yourself home after the test.
• A specialist cardiologist will review your results and a report will be sent to your referring doctor, usually within 7 working days.

Specific instructions will be provided when your appointment is booked.

Is Stress Echocardiography Safe?

Stress echocardiography is a well-established and commonly performed cardiac investigation. The test is conducted under specialist supervision with continuous monitoring throughout the procedure.

As with any exercise-based cardiac test, there is a small risk of complications, which will be discussed before testing.