A client had a myocardial infarction 5 days ago. His physician has ordered an echocardiogram to determine how his myocardial infarction has affected his ventricular wall motion.
When the client asks if this test is painful, an appropriate response is:
A . “No, but you must be able to ride on a stationary bicycle while the test is being performed.”
B . “No, but you will have to lie still and the gel that is used may be cool.”
C . “Yes, but your physician will be there and will order pain medicine for you.”
D . “Your physician has ordered medicine, which you will be given before you go for the test, which will make you sleepy.”
Answer: B
Explanation:
(A) Riding a stationary bicycle or walking on a treadmill is done during a stress test.
(B) During an echocardiogram, the client must lie supine while a technician performs the test. To perform the test, the technician uses a conductive gel and a transducer to obtain ultrasound tracings of the heart.
(C) A physician need not be present during an echocardiogram, and it is neither invasive nor painful.
(D) There is no premedication required for an echocardiogram.
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