Chest Pain Assessment Service

We assess patients with known or suspected heart disease using clinical exercise stress testing. We also provide information to patients about heart disease.

What is exercise stress testing?

An exercise stress test is used to assess how your heart responds to physical exertion. Using an electrocardiogram (ECG), we record your heartbeat at rest and while walking on a treadmill. Throughout the test you will be supervised and the clinician undertaking the test will look for indications that your heart is not getting enough oxygen.

Your ECG, heart rate, blood pressure and symptoms will be monitored and you will be asked about any symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or dizziness. The test takes about 30 minutes to complete, including a few minutes on the treadmill.

Why should I have a stress test?

• To determine whether it is likely that you have heart disease.
• To estimate the likelihood of coronary artery disease if you are considered high risk (e.g. if you have a family history of heart disease, heart attack, angina or coronary artery disease in a relative under the age of 60).
• If you are a smoker.
• If you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• If you have diabetes.
• To measure your exercise capacity if you have known coronary artery disease.
• As a routine health screening or assessment before you begin an exercise program.

How to access this service

No external referrals are accepted for this service. You can only access this service if you have been referred from the Caboolture Hospital emergency department.

What to bring

Clinics