ECHOCARDIOGRAM
An echocardiogram (Echo) is an ultrasound of the heart. During an echo test, sound waves are used through a hand-held wand to provide a picture of the structures of your heart for your cardiologist. A sonographer will place the wand on your chest and move it around to obtain a variety of pictures. You will be lying on your left side for most of the exam.
Why is an echo performed?
a. To assess the overall function of your heart
b. To determine if there are any types of disease such as valvular disease, pericardial disease, cardiac masses, damage to your heart muscle related to heart attacks and many more.
c. An echo is also used to monitor valve disease over time or to assess prosthetic heart valves over time.
Can I eat or drink on the day of the test?
Yes. Eat and drink as you normally would the day of the test.
Should I take my medications the day of the test?
Yes. Take all of your medications at the usual times as prescribed. If you are having multiple tests on the same day, please review the instructions for each test.
What should I wear on the day of the test?
Please wear two-piece outfits (shirt and pants or skirt). You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up and put on a cape.
What happens during the test?
a. The sonographer will bring you to the exam room and explain the procedure.
b. You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up and put on a cape.
c. A sonographer will place three electrodes on your chest. The electrodes are attached to an EKG monitor on the machine to chart your heart’s electrical activity during the test.
d. The sonographer will ask you to lie on your left side and place a wand with a small amount of gel on several areas of your chest.
How long does the test take?
Your appointment is scheduled for 45 minutes. After the test, you may get dressed and go home or go to your other scheduled appointments.
How do I get the results of my test?
After your cardiologist has reviewed your test, the results will be entered into your electronic medical record. Please allow 7-10 business days for routine results to be processed.
A copy of your test will be sent to your primary care doctor listed on your record. You can obtain access to your results through mychart. If you do not have a mychart account you can create one by visiting www.carycard.wakemed.org.