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An ECG is common diagnostic tool used by doctors and nurses to detect suspected heart problems
What is it?
An ECG is a recording of the electrical activity of the heart. An ECG records the rate and regularity of the heartbeat. It is also able to detect heart muscle problems such as ischaemia (lack of blood flow) or structural abnormalities (such as an enlarged heart).
Why is it done?
An ECG is common diagnostic tool used by doctors and nurses to detect suspected heart problems or as a screening procedure prior to major surgery. If a patient is admitted to the emergency department complaining of chest pain, palpitations or other cardiac symptoms an ECG will be done early. If a patient has had or is suspected of having a heart attack (acute myocardial infarction) an ECG will be done frequently over the first day and then on a regular basis after that. Patients undergoing high-risk surgery, where there could be a strain on the heart, will have an ECG recorded when they return to the ICU or HDU post operatively.
An ECG can detect:
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- Abnormal amounts of potassium in the blood
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- Abnormal heart beats and rhythms
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What is done?
An ECG is usually performed by the nurse caring for the patient. The patient is laid as flat as they are able and screened for privacy. Ten electrodes are connected to the patient, normally one on each limb and six on the chest. These electrodes detect the electrical activity, of the heart, and this information is transferred to the ECG machine. The ECG machine records this information, which is printed onto special recording paper. On occasion more electrodes are attached to the patient.
What are the risks?
There are generally no risks to the patient when undergoing an ECG. There is no risk of shock because the electrodes detect electrical impulses and do not emit electricity.
How long before the results are back?
The nurse performing the ECG will usually have the skill to interpret the ECG. However the intensive care doctors will review the ECG as soon as it is taken and will be able to identify most problems. The results will be discussed with you if there are significant problems.
Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, please discuss them with the ICU nurses and doctors
ECG Version 1.1 August 2005 (K Rolls CNC ICCMU) First posted October 200, revised July 2009
The information contained on this page is general in nature and therefore cannot reflect individual patient variation. In addition it reflects Australian intensive care practice which may differ from other countries. It is meant as a back up to specific information which will be discussed with you by the Doctors and Nurses caring for your loved one. ICCMU attests to the accuracy of the information contained here BUT takes no responsibility for how it may apply to an individual patient. Please refer to the full disclaimer.
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