Preparing for your echocardiogram

1. We email your i-screen referral along with instructions for your scan.
2. Book your scan at a local I-MED Radiology clinic — choose a location and time that suit you.
3. Get your results. Your scan is reviewed by a qualified medical professional and appears in your secure i-screen dashboard, and is sent to your referring clinician.

A standard echo needs no special preparation — just a few small things to make it comfortable.

• No fasting and no diet changes. Eat, drink and have your usual coffee as normal — there are no food, caffeine or alcohol restrictions.
• Keep taking your usual medicines unless your doctor tells you otherwise, and let the team know what you take, including supplements.
• Wear a comfortable, two-piece outfit. You'll undress from the waist up and wear a gown, so a separate top makes it easier. Leave necklaces at home or be ready to remove them.
• Bring your i-screen referral and your Medicare card to the clinic.

Good to know: small sticky electrodes go on your chest during the scan. If your skin is sensitive, the adhesive may leave a little redness for a short while — nothing to prepare for, just so you're not surprised.

The scan is painless and takes about 30–45 minutes. The room is dimmed so the sonographer can see the screen clearly.

1. You undress from the waist up, put on a gown, and lie on the exam table. Small electrode stickers go on your chest so your heart rhythm is recorded alongside the images.
2. The sonographer applies warm gel and moves a small probe over your chest with gentle pressure. You'll mostly lie on your left side, and may be asked to breathe in, out, or hold your breath for a moment.
3. You might hear a whooshing sound — that's blood moving through your heart, and it's completely normal. Occasionally a little contrast (agitated saline) is given through a vein to show the chambers more clearly — only if it's needed.
4. Afterwards the gel is wiped off and the stickers removed (a slight tug, like a plaster). You can drive and return to normal activity straight away.

Your scan is reviewed by a qualified medical professional and your report appears in your secure i-screen dashboard with a clear explanation. It's also sent to your referring clinician.

This scan isn't for emergencies. If you have chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting or other urgent symptoms now, don't wait for a scheduled scan — call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.

An echo uses no radiation and is considered very safe. Questions before your scan? Email us at info@i-screen.com.au and the team will be glad to help.

i-screen provides wellness and educational services only and does not diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional regarding your health.