Download Resting ECG - Life Breath Home Care

Resting ECG
What is an ECG? An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the
heart.
ECG is used to measure the rate and regularity of heartbeats as well as the size and position of
the chambers, the presence of any damage to the heart, and the effects of drugs or devices
used to regulate the heart (such as a pacemaker).
How the test is performed? You are asked to lie down, and ten electrodes are affixed to your
chest. This requires cleaning the site and, if necessary, shaving or clipping hair.
You are usually required to remain still while the results are recorded.
How do I prepare for the test? Before the ECG, tell your health care provider if you are taking
any medications.
There are no restrictions for food or fluids. However, ingestion of cold water immediately before
an ECG may produce changes in one of the waveforms recorded (the T wave). Exercise (such
as climbing stairs) immediately before an ECG may significantly increase your heart rate.
1/3
Resting ECG
How will I feel during the test? An ECG is painless. When the electrodes are first applied they
may be cold and in rare circumstances, you may develop a localized rash or irritation where the
patches are placed.
Why the test is performed? An ECG is very useful in determining whether a person has heart
disease. If a person has chest pain or palpitations, an ECG is helpful in determining if the heart
is beating normally. If a person is on medications that may affect the heart or if the patient is on
a pacemaker, an ECG can readily determine the immediate effects of changes in activity or
medication levels. An ECG may be included as part of a routine examination in patients over 40
years old.
What does a normal test mean? Your heart electrically is beating normal.
What do abnormal results mean? Abnormal ECG results may indicate the following:
-
Myocardial (cardiac muscle) defect
Enlargement of the heart
Congenital defects
Heart valve disease
Arrhythmias (abnormal rhythms)
Tachycardia (heart rate too fast) or bradycardia (too slow)
Ectopic heartbeat
Coronary artery disease
Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis)
Changes in the amount of electrolytes (chemicals in the blood)
Past heart attack
Present or impending heart attack
What are the risks associated with this test? There are generally no risks. Because this
procedure merely monitors the electrical impulses and does not emit electricity, there is no risk
of shock.
Special considerations The accuracy of the ECG varies with the condition being tested. Some
heart conditions are not detectable all the time, and others may never produce any specific
ECG changes.
2/3
Resting ECG
A person who suspects heart disease or has had a heart attack may need more than one ECG.
There is no reason for healthy people to undergo annual testing unless they have inherited risks
or a medical condition.
It is important to be relaxed and relatively warm during ECG recording. Any movement,
including muscle tremors such as shivering, can alter the tracing.
3/3