How did ECG interpretation become a specialized skill?
ECGs have been around for over a hundred years, and so we must all be on guard against the “comtempt of the familiar”. Today’s 12-leadECGs may look mostly like they did years ago, but there is far more information available. The 12-lead EKG is truly one fo the most powerful, non-invasive tests in modern medicine.Using the right eyes on thislow-cost test improves patient care at almost all of today’s healthcare institutions. While the training and board examinations required of cardiologists ensure expert ECG interpretation skills, the majority of ECGs are interpreted in primary care settings by non-cardiologists. At one time, this was not understood asa problem. However, as our understanding of the heart increases daily, so does the difficulty of accurately interpreting ECGs. Today, more than 400 diagnostic statements can be made on the basis of a 12-lead ECG. Developing and maintaining expertise in the nuances of ECG interpretation requires focused study and regular practice. In 2001,
