Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram is a simple test that does not produce any discomfort, nor does it present a health risk for the patient. It is very useful in the diagnosis of various health issues.
How it works
The electrocardiogram registers in paper the changes that occur in the small electrical currents that are produced with every heart beat. These alterations are essential for the analysis of the arrhythmias and very useful in the acute episodes of coronary diseases like the myocardial infarction. In some cases, additionally to the information obtained in the electrocardiogram, doctors refer to other imaging techniques like the echocardiogram stress test.
How it is done
The nurse connects the cables of the electrocardiogram to the skin using electrodes fastened to the patient’s ankles, wrists and chest. That way the same electrical impulse is picked up from different places and positions.
The patient
The electrocardiogram does not produce any discomfort. The patient must remain laying down, relaxed, speechless, with a normal breathing rhythm and with his arms and legs motionless.
