A medical stress test evaluates how the heart functions under physical strain, typically involving controlled physical exertion like walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bike. Specialized equipment continuously monitors the body’s response. Proper preparation, especially concerning attire, is important for ensuring the process is safe, comfortable, and provides accurate data to the medical team. Choosing the right clothing facilitates necessary monitoring and allows the patient to perform the required physical activity without restriction.
Upper Body Attire for Monitoring
The primary consideration for upper body wear is accessibility, as technicians need to place multiple sticky electrodes on the chest and torso to record an electrocardiogram (ECG). These electrodes track the heart’s electrical activity, requiring direct skin contact for a reliable connection. Therefore, wearing a shirt that is easy to remove or adjust is highly recommended, such as a button-down top or a loose-fitting T-shirt.
Choosing breathable, loose-fitting fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking athletic materials helps manage body temperature and sweating. Tight sleeves or restrictive shoulder seams should be avoided because they can pull on the electrode wires, potentially leading to signal interference. A simple strategy is to wear a short-sleeved top underneath an easily removable outer layer, such as a zip-up hoodie or jacket, for temperature control.
Lower Body Attire for Movement
Lower body attire must prioritize full range of motion and comfort during the physical activity, whether walking quickly or jogging. Garments like gym shorts, sweatpants, or flexible athletic leggings are ideal choices because they do not restrict movement in the hips or knees. The material should stretch easily and offer breathability to prevent overheating.
Patients should avoid clothing with tight or rigid waistbands, such as stiff jeans or formal trousers, because these can bind or chafe uncomfortably during exertion. The constant movement of the test requires materials that move fluidly with the body. Removing pantyhose or compression stockings is often required before the test, as these garments can interfere with circulation and the overall assessment.
Footwear for Safety and Stability
Footwear is arguably the most important clothing choice for an exercise stress test, directly impacting patient safety during treadmill or stationary bike use. You must wear closed-toe athletic shoes or sneakers that provide good support and have non-slip, rubber soles. The shoes need to be securely fastened, typically with laces, to prevent slippage or tripping.
Unstable footwear types, including sandals, flip-flops, boots, high heels, or loafers, are unsuitable because they compromise balance and increase the risk of falls. The test involves gradually increasing speed and incline, which demands stable footing to prevent injury. Secure, supportive athletic shoes ensure you can safely complete the required physical exertion.
Accessories and Preparations to Avoid
Certain preparations and accessories can interfere with the sensitive monitoring equipment and should be avoided or removed before the test begins. Lotions, oils, powders, or perfumes should not be applied to the chest or arms on the day of the test. These substances create a barrier on the skin, preventing electrodes from sticking securely and compromising the transmission of electrical signals.
Metal accessories, including necklaces, bracelets, large earrings, and watches, should be left at home or removed prior to the test. Metal can potentially interfere with the ECG or imaging equipment and may obstruct the placement of monitoring pads. Women should also consider wearing a supportive, non-wired bra, as underwire bras can cause discomfort during exercise and may interfere with electrode placement or ECG readings.