What is ECG?

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test which measures the electrical activity of your heart to show whether or not
it is working normally.

An ECG records the heart’s rhythm and activity on a moving strip of paper or a line on a screen. The physician
can read and interpret the peaks and dips on paper or screen to see if there is any abnormal or unusual activity.

ECG tracings normally consist of three identifiable waveforms: the P wave, the QRS complex, and the T wave. The
P wave depicts atrial depolarization; the QRS complex, ventricular depolarization; and the T wave, ventricular
repolarization.

Purpose of Electrocardiography (ECG)

* To help identify primary conduction abnormalities, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac hypertrophy, pericarditis,
electrolyte imbalances, myocardial ischemia, and the site and extent of myocardial infarction.

* To monitor recovery from an MI.

* To evaluate the effectiveness of cardiac medication.

* To assess pacemaker performance

* To determine effectiveness of thrombolytic therapy and the resolution of ST-segment depression or elevation
and T-wave changes.

Nursing Responsibilities

Patient Positioning

* Place the patient in a supine or semi-Fowler’s position. If the patient cannot tolerate being flat, you can do the
ECG in a more upright position.

* Instruct the patient to place their arms down by their side and to relax their shoulders.

* Make sure the patient’s legs are uncrossed.

* Move any electrical devices, such as cell phones, away from the patient as they may interfere with the
machine.

Skin Preparation

* Dry the skin if it’s moist or diaphoretic.

* Shave any hair that interferes with electrode placement. This will ensure a better electrode contact with the
skin.

* Rub an alcohol prep pad or benzoin tincture on the skin to remove any oils and help with electrode adhesion.

Contraindications:

Patients with pacemaker

Some patients may have allergies or, more commonly, sensitivities to the adhesive used to affix the leads; in
these cases, hypoallergenic alternatives are available from various manufacturers.

ECG PLACEMENT NORMAL ECG