Non-invasive Cardiology Changes
Create Improved Patient Experience
Getting a stress test shouldn’t be a stressful experience. “Our goal is to decrease anxiety, not contribute to it,” explains Sandy Lapp, Supervisor, Stress Lab Area, Non-invasive Cardiology. “We want to create a relaxing, less clinical atmosphere for our patients.”
This fall, Lancaster General Heart Center will unveil a more comfortable, expanded cardiology services area on the second floor of the hospital. The improvements will benefit patients by offering a more calming, welcoming atmosphere. Cardiology services will expand significantly, which should mean shorter wait times for patients.
Upon arriving in the Heart Center, patients will be welcomed by a Heart Center representative and the sights and sounds of a relaxing indoor waterfall. Staff will escort patients into a private area to take care of processing and preparation.
“Doctors and hospital staff will be able to speak freely with patients and their families in a confidential, restful atmosphere,” says Neil Clark, MD, The Heart Group, Medical Director of Non-invasive Cardiology. “The improvements will help provide a less stressful, more efficient experience for patients.”
These changes are in the first phase for the Heart Center improvements. The next phases include building a larger pre- and post-procedural cardiology services area as well as adding room for cath lab and electrophysiology procedural areas. Additional physician office space will also be added. Besides virtually tripling in size, the Heart Center will undergo cosmetic changes to reflect the theme of “Healing Through Nature.” The new decor will use imagery involving the sun, earth and water.
All phases of the project are expected to be completed near the end of 2004.
Non-invasive Cardiology Tests
Non-invasive cardiology tests are done on an inpatient or outpatient basis. The tests monitor a patient’s vital signs, heart patterns and symptoms. Many tests also involve taking images of a patient’s heart either with ultrasound or nuclear imaging. Occasionally, an intravenous (IV) medication is administered to stimulate the heart, in place of exercise. Cardiologists use the results to diagnose heart problems.
Some of the most common tests include:
- Echocardiogram (echo): Ultrasound of the heart.
- Holter monitor: Portable device that continously records heart rhythms during a normal day’s activities.
- Stress echo: Exercise stress test involving pre- and post-exercise echocardiogram and walking on a treadmill.
- Nuclear stress or “Cardiolite”: Stress test that involves the injection of a nuclear isotope (not a dye or medication) before and during the stress portion of the test, which can be performed by walking on a treadmill or receiving a medication. Pictures of the heart are taken pre- and post-stress.