A resting electrocardiogram (ECG), also known as a basal ECG, is a common diagnostic tool used to evaluate the electrical activity of your heart while you are at rest. During the test, small electrodes are affixed to your chest, arms, and legs to record the impulses produced by your heart as it contracts. The resulting lines provide valuable insights about your heart's function, including its frequency, rhythm, and the presence of any abnormalities.
A resting ECG is a safe, painless, and non-invasive procedure. It can be used to detect a variety of heart conditions, such as heart rhythm disorders, 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 further examinations 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 heart’s electrical activity. The patient frequently jogs on a treadmill or exercise bike while their vital signs are monitored closely.
The test helps detect potential problems with the heart, such as coronary artery disease or arrhythmias. It involves gradually increasing the intensity of exercise until a certain target heart rate is attained.
At completion of the test, the electrocardiogram tracing is analyzed to assess the heart's response to exercise and identify any abnormalities.
Portable EKG Surveillance
Continuous ambulatory holter monitoring, also referred to as a portable EKG, is a reliable method for tracking the heart's electrical activity over an extended period. This invasive device facilitates physicians to identify potential irregularities that may not be apparent during a limited electrocardiogram (ECG) test. Patients commonly wear the holter monitor for a full day or even up to several days, recording their heart rhythm continuously during daily activities. The collected data is then reviewed by a cardiologist, who can formulate a diagnosis and propose appropriate treatment options.
Long-Term Electrocardiography for Vital Signs Assessment
Serial electrocardiography provides a powerful method for assessing vital signs in subjects. It allows the measurement of electrical activity over intervals, providing clinicians with essential insights into clinical status. By interpreting electrocardiographic patterns, nurses can detect deviations that may suggest underlying diseases. , In addition,, serial electrocardiography can aid in the care click here of existing medical ailments.