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Patient information
Echocardiogram
What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan of the heart. It is sometimes
just called an ‘echo’. Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to view
internal structures of the body. An echocardiogram will enable the anatomy
and the functionality of the heart to be visualised and will allow the cardiac
physiologist to view the heart muscle, chambers and other internal structures
such as the valves.
Who will I see?
Your examination will be undertaken by a Cardiac Physiologist. A Cardiac
Physiologist is a highly trained individual who is accredited to the British
Society of Echocardiographers. They will undertake and formulate the report
on the ultrasound scan of your heart. They will be able to answer any questions
you may have about your examination.
Are there any risks?
No, there are no known risks, so it is considered to be a very safe examination.
Am I required to make any special preparations?
No, there are no special preparations needed prior to your echocardiogram
scan. You should tell the centre in advance, if you have had a similar
scan recently.
Can I bring a relative/friend?
Yes, you may be accompanied.
When you arrive
Please go to the reception desk in the centre. You will be shown where to wait
until collected by a Cardiac Physiologist or other member of staff. Within the
centre, the toilets are clearly signposted should you need to use them at any
time during your visit.
Upon collection
You will be taken straight into the examination room where you will be
introduced to the Cardiac Physiologist. They will then ask you to remove
certain items of clothing and any jewellery that maybe covering the chest
area. You will be provided with a modesty cover or a gown to ensure that your
privacy and dignity is maintained at all times during the examination.
What happens during the scan?
You will be asked to lie down on an examination couch. The lights in the room
may be dimmed so that the Cardiac Physiologist can see the images on the
screen more clearly.
A gel will be applied to your skin over the area to be scanned. The gel allows the
probe to slide easily over the skin and helps to produce clearer pictures.
The ultrasound gel used is washable and hypoallergenic.
You may be asked to assume various body positions as the examination is
performed. There is help for those who find this difficult. You may be asked to
take deep breaths in and out and to hold your breath for a few moments during
the scan.
Will it be uncomfortable?
The echocardiogram scan does not produce any discomfort and apart from the
ultrasound gel and probe placed on your skin, you will not feel anything.
How long will it take?
The whole examination should take no longer than about
20-30 minutes.
Are there any side effects?
No. You can drive home afterwards and return to work straight away.
Can I eat and drink afterwards?
Yes, do so normally.
When will I get the results?
The echocardiogram images will be examined and a report of the findings
prepared. This will normally take less than two days to reach your referring
doctor, however please allow at least 7 – 10 days before you contact your
doctor to allow them time to review the report.
If you have a query
If you have any questions, then please ask the Cardiac Physiologist or
alternatively contact any member of staff within the centre for assistance.
Can I leave feedback on my experience?
Yes, please complete a patient experience survey when you have finished your
examination.
Appointment reminder message
A large number of appointments are wasted every year, where patients either
forget the date and time of their visit or simply do not inform the centre
that they are unable to attend as originally expected. If you or your referring
clinician have supplied Care UK with a mobile telephone number, we may send
you an SMS reminder message 24 hours before your scheduled appointment.
This message will remind you about your appointment and will ask you to
contact the centre if you are not expecting to attend as originally planned.
Please notify your Care UK diagnostic centre if you wish to opt out of receiving
this reminder message.
careuk.com
Reviewed March 2013. Next review due March 2015.
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