CARDIOPULMONARY SERVICES

 

Welcome to the Cardiopulmonary Services department at Erie Shores HealthCare. We provide a comprehensive range of services, including ECG, Holter Monitors, Exercise Stress Test, Echocardiogram, and Pulmonary Function testing to support your healthcare needs. Our goal is to make it easy for you to book an appointment, prepare for your visit, and take advantage of our extended hours. 

 

OUR CARDIOPULMONARY SERVICES

 

Our Cardiopulmonary Requisition for Physician Offices is available here. 

 

Electrocardiogram (ECG)


An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a non-invasive medical test that records the heart's electrical activity. It helps doctors diagnose and monitor various heart conditions by showing the heart's rhythm and detecting any abnormalities in its electrical impulses. Our Electrocardiogram services offer fast, effective diagnostic support, typically requiring no preparation. ECG testing does not require an appointment, allowing patients to access testing quickly and conveniently.

Walk-in appointments are available Monday – Friday, 8:00 am - 3:00 pm.

 

Holter Monitors

 

A Holter monitor is a portable ECG device used to monitor the heart’s function over a prolonged period. Holter monitoring is available for 24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour, 7-day, and 14-day intervals. Our cardiovascular technicians are engaged to ensure a fast and pleasant experience. Holter monitor studies are available by appointment and provide essential data for diagnostic cardiac care.

 

Echocardiogram

 

We proudly offer echocardiogram services at Erie Shores HealthCare, including contrast-enhanced and bubble echo studies. An echocardiogram, also known as an "echo," is a non-invasive ultrasound test used to visualize the heart's structure and function. It uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart, showing how blood flows through its chambers, valves, and blood vessels. The test can assess the heart's pumping capacity, identify heart valve problems, and evaluate blood flow.

 

Exercise Stress Test

 

Exercise stress testing is available by referral. An exercise stress test, also known as an exercise electrocardiogram (ECG), is a medical test that evaluates how your heart responds to physical activity. It helps doctors assess your heart's health and identify potential issues, such as coronary artery disease or heart rhythm problems. During the test, your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG are monitored while you exercise on a treadmill.

 

Pulmonary Function Testing

 

Pulmonary function testing (PFT) evaluates the function of your lungs by measuring airflow, lung volumes, and gas exchange. These tests help diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions and respiratory illnesses. The Methacholine Bronchodilator Response Test Measures changes in airflow after administering a medication that widens the airways.

 

Methacholine Breathing Challenge (Bronchial Challenge) Booking Instructions

 

To be booked for a Bronchial Challenge, patients must have:

  • A previous PFT / Spirometry test. 
  • FEV1 needs to be >1.5LPM or >= 60% of predicted values 
  • Patients cannot be pregnant or breastfeeding. 
  • Patients cannot have had a myocardial infarction (MI) / Stroke, or eye surgery in the past 3 months. 
  • Patients cannot do this if they have a known aortic aneurysm or uncontrolled hypertension. 
Pre-Screening questions for Bronchial Challenge Test:
  • Has a previous PFT been done? Should be yes, if not, the patient needs a PFT done first
  • Are you pregnant or breastfeeding? Should be no 
  • Have you had a stroke or cardiac event in the past 3 months? Should be no
  • Do you have an aortic aneurysm? Should be no 

Please let us know as soon as possible if you need to cancel an appointment so we can arrange for another patient to take your place.

 

Attention Healthcare Providers:

 

If the patient is self-booking their own ECG, please provide the requisition to the patient and do not fax it. We also accept paper requisitions by fax. Click here for an electronic version of our current requisition for Cardiopulmonary Services at ESHC.

 

 

Cardiopulmonary FAQ

Do I need a referral for Cardiopulmonary Services at Erie Shores HealthCare?

A referral is generally required for outpatient Cardiopulmonary procedures. Your doctor’s office will fax a referral, and we will call you to arrange an appointment. You may also bring in a referral form from your doctor to make an appointment in person. A doctor’s referral (requisition) form is required for any procedure.

Be sure to ask your doctor about any preparation requirements for your tests. If you are unsure, please do not hesitate to contact the Cardiopulmonary Department at 519-326-2373, Ext. 4453

How do I schedule an appointment?

Your doctor’s office will fax a referral, and we will call you to arrange an appointment. You may also bring in a referral form from your doctor to make an appointment in person. A doctor’s referral (requisition) form is required for any procedure.

ECG testing is available as a walk-in procedure without an appointment.

What should I bring to my imaging appointment?

Please bring your health card and a list of any medications you are currently taking. Comfortable attire is recommended.

What are the current wait times for Cardiopulmonary Services?

Wait times vary depending on the specific service. We aim to provide timely appointments and will inform you of any anticipated wait times when you schedule your appointment.

Where do I return my holter when the monitoring period is over?

The completed Holter monitor must be returned to the ESHC Cardiopulmonary department so the data can be reported and read by the physician. It is important that the monitor be returned as soon as the recording is completed to prevent delays in interpretation and reporting.