The warning signs of a heart attack are often subtle, but they can still be deadly. That’s why we offer professionals specially trained in cardiac care. You will be diagnosed quickly and accurately, and if you do need treatment, you’ll be in the care of our progressive heart program. In fact, Saint Elizabeth is recognized as one of the nation’s fastest hospitals in responding to heart attacks.

If you are experiencing chest pain, you will receive immediate medical attention. You will be evaluated by a cardiologist and a team of medical professionals who will determine a care plan that meets your needs.

If your chest pain is the result of a heart condition, our team will perform the necessary tests for diagnosis which may include the following: 

Cardiac Catheterization
A cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic test that is used to detect blockages in the arteries of the heart. The procedure helps doctors diagnose heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, defective heart valves or congenital heart defects.

Coronary CT Angiography
A CT angiography uses an intravenous dye along with a CT scan to construct an image of the cardiac anatomy. This allows physicians the ability to evaluate any cardiac abnormalities and can be used to rule out a heart attack or other diseases.

Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram, or echo, is a non-invasive, diagnostic test that uses sound waves to take moving pictures of the heart. This test is used to evaluate the pumping function of the heart. It can show your cardiologist if the heart muscle function is normal or if there are problems with the heart valves.

Electrocardiography
This is often called a EKG. It is a simple test to detect and record electrical activity of your heart and it helps locate the source of the problem.

Holter Monitoring
This is an outpatient device that records your heartbeat for 24 hours. It is used to diagnose any positional heartbeat irregularities.

Nuclear Imaging
This diagnostic test involves the use of a tiny amount of radioactive dye, called a tracer, which is injected into your blood stream where it flows to your heart. The tracer can be detected by advanced technology such as x-rays, CT scans and MRIs. The procedure can show damage to the heart and blood flow problems.

Stress Test
An exercise test on a treadmill to examine the heart’s ability to function under physical stress and exercise.

Nebraska Heart has a dedicated presence at Saint Elizabeth. They occupy specific clinic space on the lobby level adjacent to the Saint Elizabeth cardiovascular department, providing close proximity and access to patients for cardiovascular testing.