Cardiac Testing at Missouri Baptist Medical Center

Event monitor

A small, portable device is worn over an extended period to record your heart’s electrical activity. Each time you experience symptoms, you press a button on the device to record the symptom, which is then immediately transmitted to the doctor’s office for evaluation.

• Approximate test time: The in-office instruction by the Cardiac Testing Center staff is 30 minutes. You will be required to wear the device for 30 days.
• Preparation required: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.

Holter monitor

A small, wearable device is worn to continuously record the electrical activity of your heart to detect abnormal heartbeats. Data is stored on the device and returned to the doctor at the end of the time period for review and evaluation.  

• Approximate test time: The in-office instruction by the Cardiac Testing Center staff is 30 minutes. You will be required to wear the device for 24-48 hours. 
• Preparation required: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.

Echocardiogram (ECHO)

A noninvasive ultrasound using high-frequency sounds waves to produce images of your heart’s size, structure and function.

• Approximate test time: 40 minutes
• Preparation time: No preparation is required.

Treadmill stress test or stress test

This test is often ordered if you are experiencing chest pain to help evaluate the presence or significance of coronary artery disease and determine the amount of exercise you can sustain. While walking on a treadmill, you will be connected to an EKG machine that monitors your heart rate, rhythm and response.

• Approximate test time: 30-60 minutes
• Preparation required: Wear comfortable clothes and running shoes.

Stress echocardiogram (Stress ECHO)

During this test, we will capture two images to evaluate how well the heart and blood vessels are working before and after exercise. After the first test is completed, you will exercise on a treadmill. Immediately after exercising you will receive a second echocardiogram.  

• Approximate test time: 60-90 minutes
• Preparation required:
  • Do not eat or drink 12 hours before the test.
  • Do not apply lotions to your skin.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and running shoes.
  • Bring a list of your medications.

Nuclear stress test

During this test, images are taken before and after exercise to determine how well blood flows through your heart. If you are unable to exercise on a treadmill, you will receive a medication that has the same effect as exercise.  

• Approximate test time: 3 hours
• Preparation required:
  • Do not eat or drink 12 hours before the test.
  • Do not consume caffeine, decaffeinated food or chocolate 12 hours before the test. 
  • Do not apply lotions to your skin.
  • Wear comfortable loose-fitting clothes and running shoes.
  • Bring a list of your medications.