How an electrocardiogram is to a patient
The electrocardiogram is an important part of the initial evaluation of a patient suspected of having a heart-related problem. Also can provide important information about the patient’s heart rhythm, previous heart attack, increased thickness of the heart or oxygen delivery declined in the heart among others. Today we tell you how an ECG is done to a patient.
It is a simple test that records information about the beats and rhythm of the patient’s heart and measures the electrical signals that make the heart of this can.
Making the electrocardiogram
To achieve the electrocardiogram small, adhesive electrodes, which are applied to the chest, arms and legs of the patient are prepared; although some systems, the electrodes can be applied to the chest, shoulders and sides of the lower chest or hips.
Through patient cables connected to an ECG machine and asked to hold very still while a technician records the echocardiogram, so that the electrical activity created by the heart patient is processed on the machine.
They can pick up the electrical signals on a screen or printed on a graph paper, which will be interpreted by the physician. The performance of the test only takes a few minutes.
Preparing the patient for ECG
Because many drugs can change the results of this test, you should tell your doctor about all medications the patient is taking, especially heart medications. It is also important prior to testing, remove all jewelry neck, arms and wrists.
The only preparation for performing an electrocardiogram is wearing clothing that allows easy access to the chest , like shirts buttoned to the front, they are very practical.
Before the test, the patient’s chest should be cleaned with alcohol to ensure good electrical contact with the electrodes. In men who have a hairy chest, it may be necessary to shave small areas, to allow proper skin contact with the electrodes, and does not interfere in the process.
Electrocardiogram risks for the patient
A standard electrocardiogram is a simple, quick and painless procedure, but there is a small risk of complications during exercise electrocardiogram, because exercise can cause shortness of breath, arrhythmias, chest pain or even a heart attack.
The electrocardiogram is generally carried out in the hospital, especially in cases of chest pain or abnormal heart rhythm.
After electrocardiogram
Will the doctor who performed the electrocardiogram who communicate the results to the patient or failing the doctor who asks for the test and he will also decide whether further testing is necessary heart.
