How is an ekg done?
An EKG is one of the simplest and fastest procedures used to evaluate the heart. An EKG technician, nurse, or physician will place electrodes (small plastic patches) at specific locations on your chest, arms, and legs. The electrodes may be self-sticking, or a gel may be applied to make the electrodes adhere to the skin. You will be lying down on a stretcher or bed, and the leads (wires) will be connected to the electrodes on your skin. You will need to lie very still and not talk during the EKG procedure, as movement or talking may interfere with the tracing. The technician, nurse, or physician will start the tracing, which will take just a few minutes. You will not feel anything during the tracing. Once a clear tracing has been obtained, the leads and electrodes will be removed, and you will be free to continue on with your usual activities, unless directed otherwise by your physician. An EKG can indicate the presence of arrhythmias (an abnormal rhythm of the heart), damage to the he
