A cardiac stress test is an exercise-based diagnostic examination used to evaluate how the heart and blood vessels respond to physical exertion in a controlled clinical environment. During the test, a patient walks on a treadmill or pedals a stationary bike while medical professionals monitor the heart’s electrical activity, blood pressure, and physical symptoms. Proper preparation, especially concerning what you wear, ensures the procedure proceeds smoothly and yields accurate diagnostic data. This preparation focuses on maximizing comfort and movement while minimizing interference with the specialized monitoring equipment.
Selecting Comfortable Exercise Attire
The clothing worn for a stress test should be similar to what one would wear for a moderate to intense workout session. The goal is to select garments that facilitate a full range of motion and do not restrict breathing. A two-piece outfit consisting of a loose-fitting top and comfortable bottoms is the most practical choice.
Materials that wick moisture away from the skin, such as performance synthetics or blends, are better than absorbent cotton. These materials help regulate body temperature and prevent dampness during the exercise phase. While the fit should be loose enough to avoid restriction, excessively baggy clothing should be avoided, as it can interfere with the placement of monitoring electrodes.
For the upper body, a shirt that buttons or zips down is helpful, as it provides easy access to the chest area for the placement of electrocardiogram (ECG) leads. Wearing layers is also beneficial, allowing the patient to remove a light jacket or zip-up hoodie as the body heats up and then put it back on during the cool-down period.
The Critical Role of Footwear
Footwear is a crucial aspect of preparation, as improper shoes are a common reason for postponing a scheduled stress test. The test involves walking or jogging on a treadmill, which requires stable, non-slip support to prevent falls. Supportive athletic footwear is mandatory for the test to be conducted safely.
The shoes must be closed-toed and offer good arch and ankle support, such as running or walking sneakers. Footwear like sandals, dress shoes, boots, or high heels are prohibited because they present a safety hazard on the moving treadmill belt. Ensure that any laces are securely tied to prevent tripping, which could abruptly halt the procedure.
Necessary Items to Remove or Avoid
To ensure the monitoring equipment captures clear signals, certain items and products must be avoided or removed before the test begins. Electrodes are placed on the chest and sometimes the shoulders to capture the heart’s electrical activity, and secure adhesion is necessary for accurate readings.
Patients should strictly avoid applying lotions, oils, powders, or heavy moisturizers to the chest, arms, and back on the day of the test. These substances create a barrier that prevents the sticky patches from adhering securely to the skin.
The presence of metal near the chest can create interference on the ECG tracing, potentially compromising the test results. Patients should remove all necklaces and long, dangling earrings before the appointment. For women, it is recommended to wear a sports bra or a standard bra without metal underwire, as the wire can interfere with electrode placement. Restrictive undergarments can also cause localized discomfort during exertion.
Finally, personal items like wallets, keys, and cell phones should be removed from pockets during the test. Any necessary identification and insurance information should be kept accessible.