← MA / Nurse Tech Curriculum
Level 1Cardiology Office Skills

Echo Prep Instructions

Prepare patients for an echocardiogram — what it is, what to expect, and special prep for stress/TEE.

Beginner~11 min

Learning Objectives

  • 1.Explain what an echocardiogram involves.
  • 2.Give appropriate prep for standard vs. special echo types.
  • 3.Reassure and set expectations.

Goal

A standard echo needs little prep, but patients are often anxious. Clear, reassuring instructions and knowing the special cases (stress echo, TEE) prevent confusion.

What to tell the patient

  • •A transthoracic echo is a painless ultrasound of the heart; usually no special prep.
  • •They’ll lie on a table; gel and a probe are used on the chest; it takes ~30–60 minutes.
  • •Stress echo: follow stress-test prep (comfortable clothes, possible NPO/caffeine/med holds per protocol).
  • •TEE (transesophageal): NPO and sedation — needs a driver; follow specific instructions.

What NOT to do independently

  • •Don’t decide med holds for stress/TEE — confirm per protocol; don’t interpret results.

Scope note

Set expectations and give protocol-based prep; the study is performed and read by trained staff/providers.

Red flags to flag

  • •New cardiac symptoms before the study — report to the nurse/provider.

Alert

Active symptoms before any cardiac test are reported first.

Example script

  • •"An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of your heart — it’s painless. For a standard one there’s no special prep; it takes about 30–60 minutes."

Spanish phrase

An echocardiogram is a painless ultrasound of your heart.

Un ecocardiograma es un ultrasonido del corazón que no causa dolor.

oon eh-koh-kar-dee-oh-GRAH-mah es oon ool-trah-soh-NEE-doh del koh-rah-SON keh noh KOW-sah doh-LOR

Documentation tips

  • •Note the echo type and that prep/expectations were reviewed.

Checklist

  • Explained the test and set expectations.
  • Gave the right prep for the echo type.
  • Confirmed driver/NPO for TEE.
  • Flagged new symptoms.

Knowledge Check Quiz

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not replace clinical judgment, and is not a substitute for institutional protocols or certified medical interpreters. No patient health information (PHI) should be entered into this application.