everything ekg

Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)

A test that measures the electrical activity of the heart over time, used to find heart problems.

P Wave

Shows when the upper chambers of the heart (atria) are contracting.

QRS Complex

Indicates when the lower chambers (ventricles) are contracting.

T Wave

Reflects when the ventricles are resetting after contraction.

PR Interval

The time taken for the signal to travel from the atria to the ventricles.

QT Interval

The total time for a single heartbeat, from the start of the signal to when the ventricles reset.

Limb Leads

Electrodes placed on the arms and legs for an ECG.

Chest Leads

Electrodes placed across the chest for an ECG.

Atrial Fibrillation

A fast and irregular heartbeat detected in EKGs.

Ventricular Tachycardia

A quick heart rhythm that starts in the ventricles.

Heart Attack Signs

Changes in the shape of the waves on an EKG, such as ST elevation.

When to Get an EKG

Indicated if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeats, before surgery, or to check heart disease.

Steps to Perform an EKG

Involves explaining the procedure, positioning the patient, cleaning spots, attaching stickers, and taking the recording.

Reading EKGs

Involves checking the speed of the heart, signs of attacks, size and position of heart chambers, and wave patterns.