Nursing Responsibilities Related to Adenosine Stress Tests

An adenosine stress test, which checks for heart problems, is done for patients who cannot exercise. Pictures of the heart are taken. Adenosine, a drug that stimulates blood flow, is administered, and more pictures are taken. Before-and-after images are then compared.

Intake

• The nurse instructs the patient to avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, and medications such as Anacin or Excedrin) for 24 hours prior to his test and to fast six hours beforehand. Small sips of water are OK.

Medications

• The nurse asks the patient about current medications and instructions from his physician about taking those medications on the day of the test.

Preparation

• Before the test, the nurse attaches a blood pressure cuff to the patient’s arm, starts an intravenous line in his other arm to infuse the adenosine, and applies electrodes on his chest to monitor his heart.

Monitoring

• The nurse checks blood pressure, heart rate and rhythm, and monitors for possible side effects such as chest pain or breathing difficulties during the adenosine infusion.

Afterward

• The nurse informs the patient that he can resume normal activities after the test. His physician will review test results with him at a later date.