Skip to main content.

Common Tests

Below are some basics about some of the many tests we do here, what you need to do to prepare and how long they take. All the common tests here are pain free!

Tests that can usually be performed during a regular clinic visit:

Tests that usually need to be scheduled separately:

What should I bring to the test?

Please bring snacks and something to drink for your child. Most clinic visits involve more than one test, and that can make for a long day.

When do we get the test results?

You can expect same-day results from an ECG and an echocardiogram. A chest X-ray needs to be interpreted by a radiologist, so it takes longer. Results for other tests usually take more time.

Parent Tip: Schedule your child's fall sports physical early in the summer so he can get the results in time for school. Sometimes follow-up tests are needed.

Use of sedation with some tests

Since it is hard for infants and young children to sit still for some of the longer tests, children between six months and two years may need a mild sedative medicine by mouth before the test.

If your child needs to be sedated, don't give him anything to eat for four hours before the sedation. He can have clear liquids, such as apple juice or Pedialyte, until two hours before the test — but nothing at all to eat or drink for the last two hours before the test.