Nuclear Stress Test

To detect the presence of heart disease and heart blockages, a stress test is generally ordered. It is a safe method. You walk on the treadmill and information is obtained from EKG, blood pressure and pictures of your heart to evaluate the state of your heart.

How do I prepare for it?

24 hours before your test:

No caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee, cola or tea.

The day of your test

Please do not:

Do not eat or drink 4 hours prior to the test
Do not apply creams, oils or lotions
Do not wear wire bras, jewellery, zippers or metal buttons

Please do:

You may take a shower.
Wear comfortable clothes, socks and walking tennis shoes.
Bring a sweater as the room may be cold.
Bring a snack and a caffeinated drink as there will be a snack break.
Bring all your medications.
Allow 4 hours to complete the exam.

Description of the stress test:

You will register, you will be asked to sign a consent form, and an IV will be inserted in your arm.

A tracer will be injected and 15 minutes later, the first set of pictures will be taken with a camera while you are in the camera chair. The images require you to be in the camera chair for 15 minutes.

After the first set of pictures, you will undergo a stress test under Dr. Ahmad’s supervision. your EKG, BP and heart rate will be monitored during the stress test.

After the stress test the IV line will be removed and you may eat, drink and take your home medications if needed.

You will then wait for 30-60 minutes for the second set of images.

The second set of images will take 15 minutes. You may then check out and go home.

Within 72 hours of the stress test, if you will be going through airports, government buildings or border, please inform the doctor and obtain a letter from her.

Medication instructions are given by your doctor.

Cancellation Policy

The radioactive agent is ordered under your name, is expensive, and cannot be utilized for another patient, therefore we require 48 hour notice for cancellations. Otherwise, you will be charged a cancellation fee for the cost of the agent in the amount of $400.00.

When do I obtain my results?

All patients are expected to return to follow-up on test results. Dr. Ahmad will discuss the results with you in great detail with the aid of diagrams and images. Your questions and concerns will be answered as well. For your safety and privacy results are given in person and not over the phone.