Cardiovascular Fitness Procedures Manual

2.6 Description of Supplies

2.6.1 ECG Electrodes/Alcohol Prep Pads/Abrasive Pads

Foam stress test V electrodes (1.5 “) from Vermont Medical will be used with the ECG chest

leads to monitor the heart rate during the exam. Alcohol prep pads will be used to prepare the site for

attachment of electrodes. Marquette abrasive pads will be used to remove old cells from the skin surface

to improve adherence of the chest electrodes.

2.6.2 Running Shoes

The criteria that are important to consider when assessing whether or not the SP’s footwear

is appropriate for the treadmill test are the presence of arch supports, heel cushions, and traction. If the SP

does not bring footwear that is appropriate and safe for this test, acceptable footwear will be provided. A

supply of women’s and men’s running shoes are kept in a shoe rack in the cardiovascular fitness room in

each mobile examination center (MEC).

Examples of appropriate footwear are running shoes, casual or leisure style shoes, and

modern athletic hiking boots. Some examples of inappropriate footwear include pumps, sandals, women’s

or men’s dress shoes, hard sole boots or shoes (work boots, traditional hiking boots), any boot or shoe that

has a heel for aesthetic purposes, and any shoe with cleats (soccer, golf, baseball, etc.).

2.6.3 Mesh Vests

If a SP has chest hair that covers the sites for electrode placement, the area will not be

shaved. See Section 3.8.5. In situations where the chest hair makes adherence of the electrode to the skin

difficult, a mesh vest will be used to help secure the electrodes and stabilize the leads.