A resting electrocardiogram (ECG), also known as a resting EKG, is a common diagnostic tool used to assess the heart rhythm of your heart while you are at rest. During the test, small electrodes are attached to your ecg electrocardiogram chest, arms, and legs to record the impulses produced by your heart as it functions. The resulting tracings provide valuable insights about your heart's structure, including its rate, rhythm, and the presence of any abnormalities.
A resting ECG is a safe, painless, and non-invasive procedure. It can be used to identify a variety of heart conditions, such as arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, and heart failure.
- Keep in mind that a resting ECG may not always detect all potential heart problems.
- Consequently, your doctor may order more evaluations if needed.
Stress Test ECG
Exercise stress electrocardiography is a non-invasive test used to evaluate the heart's function under physical exertion. During this procedure, electrodes are on the chest to monitor the electrical signals of the heart. The patient often rides a stationary bicycle on a treadmill or exercise bike while their vital signs are monitored closely.
The test helps identify potential problems with the heart, such as coronary artery disease or arrhythmias. The process includes gradually increasing the intensity of exercise until a certain desired heart rate has been achieved.
At completion of the test, the electrocardiogram tracing is analyzed to assess the heart's response to exercise and show signs of problems.
Portable EKG Surveillance
Continuous ambulatory holter monitoring, also referred to as a portable EKG, is a reliable method for recording the heart's electrical activity over an extended period. This wearable device facilitates physicians to detect potential irregularities that may not be apparent during a short electrocardiogram (ECG) test. Patients commonly wear the holter monitor for a full day or even up to several days, recording their heart rhythm continuously across daily activities. The collected data is then reviewed by a cardiologist, who can determine a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment choices.
Long-Term Electrocardiography for Vital Signs Assessment
Serial electrocardiography delivers a unique method for assessing vital signs in subjects. It enables the observation of heart rhythm over intervals, providing clinicians with key insights into patient health. By analyzing electrocardiographic tracings, nurses can identify irregularities that may point to underlying problems. , In addition,, serial electrocardiography can support the management of existing cardiac diseases.