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- What To Expect
An echocardiogram (often called an “echo”) is a safe, completely painless ultrasound that uses sound waves to take moving pictures of your heart. It allows your healthcare team to see exactly how your heart beats, how its valves are working, and how well it pumps blood.
What happens during the test
- Clothing & Comfort: You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up and change into a private clinic gown. We highly recommend wearing a comfortable, two-piece outfit.
- Skin Prep: Please do not apply lotions, creams, oils, or powders to your chest on the day of your test. These can prevent our rhythm sensors from properly sticking to your skin.
- Your Care Team: The test is performed by a male sonographer. If you would prefer a female chaperone to be present in the room during your exam, please just let our front desk know.
- Child Safety: For safety reasons, children are not permitted inside the exam room during medical testing and cannot be left unsupervised in our waiting area.
- Duration & Arrival
- Clinic Location: Please proceed directly to Unit #200, located on the second floor of the building.
- Arrival Time: Please arrive 20 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. We will perform a routine blood pressure check (vitals) and a quick baseline ECG before your ultrasound starts.
- Test Length: The ultrasound scanning process typically takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour.
Wait Times
We value your time and work hard to stay right on schedule. Because our clinic manages specialized cardiac cases, unexpected medical delays can sometimes occur. Your total visit may extend up to one hour past your original appointment time, and we sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding if a delay happens.
Safety & Support
- You may bring one support person, aged 16 or older, but only if you need help with translation.
- Children may not accompany patients during the test or left unattended in the waiting area.
- Preparation & Restrictions
Before Your Appointment
- Chest hair may need to be shaved.
