What you should know (cardiolite/persantine stress test)

In preparation for your Cardiolite/Persantine Stress Test you should exclude caffeine, alcohol and smoking. If you are taking heart or blood pressure medications, check with your physician to see if you should stop the medication before your test.

If you are scheduled for a Persantine Stress Test, please stop taking Theophylline at your physician’s request.  Please do not engage in strenuous exercise (brisk walking or jogging) on the first day of your test. We need you rested.

Bring loose-fitting, comfortable, short-sleeved exercise clothing and rubber-soled shoes.  Do not wear a dress or skirt.  Women must wear a bra for exercise.  Do not wear jewellery or perfume.

Please report to Diagnostic Imaging Patient Reception.  You should allow four to five hours for your test.  You should not eat for three hours prior to the test and should exclude caffeine, alcohol and smoking.  If you are diabetic you should eat toast and drink juice two hours prior to your test.We will insert an intravenous into your arm which will deliver an injection of Cardiolite, before we scan you with a camera for 20 minutes.  We will then accompany you to CadioRespiratory for the stress portion of your test.
Our cardiologist technologist will prepare you for your Stress Test.  A physician will inject Cardiolite while you are on the treadmill.  For a Persantine Stress Test, you will have the injection at rest.  In both cases, you will then go to our Diagnostic Imaging department for a scan.Please note that Persantine could cause headache or nausea and Cardiolite could result in a metallic taste in your mouth.