Electrocardiogram (ECG)

The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records electrical signals from your heart. The pattern of these signals can help tell the healthcare provider if your heart is normal, under stress, or having electrical problems, changes in the heartbeat, strain, or other damage.

Getting ready

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the chest.

• Allow enough time before your ECG to check in. You'll likely need to fill out paperwork before the test.

What happens during an ECG

• You'll be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up and to put on a gown. You'll then lie down on your back.

• Electrodes (small pads) are placed on your chest, shoulders, and legs. If you have excess body hair that keeps the electrodes from making contact with your skin, small patches of hair may need to be shaved.

• If your skin is moist or sweaty, it may have to be dried off for the small patches to stick to the skin.

• The electrodes record your heart rhythm and any change in your heart’s signals that occur during the test.

• After a few minutes of recording, the healthcare provider will remove the electrodes. In some cases, they may have to repeat the ECG to get accurate results. From start to finish, the ECG takes about 10 minutes.

What happens after the test

• You can resume your normal activity.

• The results are sent to your healthcare provider for interpretation.

• Be sure to keep your follow-up appointment.

Your next appointment is:____________________

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

• Are taking any medicines. This includes both over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, herbs, and other supplements. Also tell them if you're taking illegal drugs.

• Feel any chest discomfort, pain, burning, tightness, or pressure

• Feel as though your heart is beating rapidly or irregularly (palpitations)

• Have ever blacked-out, fainted, or stopped being awake and aware