Cardio-Pulmonary Stress Test

Patient Instructions

A cardio-pulmonary stress test, also called a pulmonary exercise stress test, tells how much air moves in and out of your lungs when you exercise.

1. Small pads (electrodes) will be placed on your upper body to monitor your heart. You will also wear nose clips and breathe through a mouthpiece. Before you start to exercise, your heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure will be monitored. You will exercise as long as you can. Before the test and at the end of the test, a blood sample may be taken. Plan to spend 1-2 hours from the time of arrival until the time you can go home.
   
   
2. Any inhaled medications that you take for breathing problems should be stopped 4 hours before the test. Unless instructed by your doctor, continue to take any other prescription medications that you normally take.
   
   
3. Bring a list with you of any medications that you are currently taking.
   
   
4. Wear walking shoes, such as sneakers, and wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict your breathing.
   
   
5. Report any recent upper respiratory infection, cold, sinusitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia.
   
   
6. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled procedure time. You must register prior to the test.
   
   
7. Have a light breakfast/lunch 2 hours prior to the test.
   
   
8. Do not smoke 12 hours prior to the test.
   
   
9. The Pulmonary Function Lab is located in Suite 2 on Level 5 (main lobby level) in the hospital.