Children's cardiology patient information

Find out what to expect when you come to hospital for your child's cardiology appointment.

Before your appointment

You should attend all appointments with your child if they are under the age of 16.

Remember to bring your child’s ‘red book’ to the appointment and a list of current medications.

Please check your appointment letter for anything specific you have been asked to take with you. In addition, it would be helpful if you could bring:

• your full address and telephone number(s)
• your appointment card and appointment letter
• your GP’s name and address
• a list of questions you may want to ask your consultant

During your appointment

Please note that we are a teaching hospital, so medical students may be present for some appointments. If you do not wish to have them in the room please let the nurse or doctor know and the students will be asked to step outside.

Appointments may take up to two hours. Your child’s height and weight will be measured and an ECG (electrocardiogram, an electrical heart tracing) will be performed before you see the doctor.

During the consultation with the doctor a detailed history will be taken of your child’s condition and it is likely they will have an echocardiogram (ultrasound examination of the heart). Both of these tests are painless.

After your appointment

Your results will be provided immediately and follow-up appointments will be offered if necessary.