Preparing for Your Visit

Do not eat (fast) for at least 8 to 10 hours before an abdominal ultrasound; overnight fasting is enough. For pelvic ultrasounds, drink 5 glasses of water one hour before the test and do not empty your bladder. Ask your doctor whether to continue or skip any medications.

Purchase an over-the-counter Rectal Fleet Enema from the pharmacy and use it at least 2 hours before your examination, following the package instructions. Finish drinking 5 glasses of water one hour before the test and do not empty your bladder. Ask your doctor whether to continue or skip any medications.

Under 16 weeks or dating ultrasound: drink 4 glasses of clear fluid an hour before your appointment. A full bladder gives the sonographer clearer first-trimester images. Second and third trimester: no preparation required. Our certified NT sonographers perform all stages.

Your doctor should give you three documents: a bloodwork requisition, an ultrasound requisition, and the IPS measurement paper. Bloodwork is done the same day as the ultrasound. After your ultrasound, please do not leave the clinic until our staff returns the completed IPS measurement paper to you.

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. High-frequency sound waves image the heart valves and chambers to show how well the heart is working. No preparation is needed.

Ask your doctor whether to skip any routine medications on the day of the test; some medicines can affect the results, but never stop a medication without first talking to your doctor. The test involves exercise, so wear loose, comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Please do not bring valuables.

Contrast is used during an echocardiogram to show the flow of blood through the heart and the heart muscle. SonoVue is a contrast solution injected into a vein during the test. The contrast is visible as it flows through the heart, which helps your doctor reach a diagnosis. Follow the instructions given when booking.

Tell the clinic before your appointment if you have any medication allergies or have had an allergic reaction to a COVID vaccine.

A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that records your heart's ECG activity over 24, 48, or 72 hours, or up to 7 to 14 days. Please shower before the test and do not apply lotion to your chest. Avoid bathing, showering, or swimming while you wear the monitor. Our technician will give you instructions on caring for it. Record any chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or other cardiac symptoms in the diary provided.