Cardiac Stress Testing

A cardiac stress test is sometimes called a treadmill exercise stress test or treadmill stress test. It is performed to determine the effects of exercise on the heart. The test allows doctors to detect abnormal heart rhythms and diagnose the absence or presence of coronary artery disease.

How the test is performed

You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up and put on a gown.  A registered cardiac technologist will place electrodes on different areas of your chest; these will be attached to a monitor and a blood pressure cuff on one of your arms. The technologist will take a baseline electrocardiogram (ECG) and measure your heart rate and blood pressure, then you will start to walk on the treadmill. The treadmill will increase in speed and incline every three minutes. The technologist will monitor the electrical activity of your heart to see how well it responds to exercise (stress) at different levels.

How to prepare for the test

Prepare a list of your medications to bring to the appointment; please speak to your doctor ahead of time about discontinuing any of your medications prior to the stress test. On the day of your appointment, bring or wear comfortable walking or running shoes. Please stop all food and caffeine two to three hours before the test.

How the test will feel

The test is painless. You may experience fatigue, sweating, and/or shortness of breath. The appointment is 45 minutes long; however, the actually physical exercising is usually 6 to 14 minutes of walking/running (depending on various factors such as your age, physical fitness, etc.).

News & Media

Construction starting for CT Scanner at KDH

September 24, 2024

KDH Board of Directors Welcomes Six New Members

August 22, 2024
Open ProfileSteve Webber

Open ProfileStaff ProfileSteve WebberMaintenance Mechanic, Stationary Engineering Team Lead

Read Profile

99.7%

score on our last Accreditation Canada survey

Measuring the quality of care and services that KDH provides

Find a Clinic or Service

Thank You
Thank You

“I had surgery at KDH for a knee injury. The experience I had was like no other. The video of what to expect was superbly done and put me at ease before I arrived. The greeter was welcoming and had a great sense of humour. I could tell he really enjoyed his job! The nurse who took care of me explained everything that would happen. I shared with her my fear of IVs and she used a small needle and distracted me so I felt only a pinch. Dr. Marshall explained the procedure and what would happen. He wheeled me into surgery and the people in the OR all introduced themselves and told me what they do. After the surgery, another nurse was there when I opened my eyes and she could see I was confused so she told me it was ok to go back to sleep for a little while. Later, she made sure I was ready to go. I work in the Human Resources field, and I would love to know more about how you create a culture where everyone wants to be at work and be their best selves!”

Christina