DEFINITION:

 ECG, or electrocardiogram, is a medical procedure that records the electrical activity of the
heart over a period of time. It is commonly used to diagnose heart conditions and assess heart
function.
PURPOSE/REASONS:
The primary purpose of an Electrocardiogram (ECG) is to:
 Assess Heart Function: ECGs are used to evaluate the electrical activity of the heart, helping
diagnose various heart conditions, such as arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other cardiac
abnormalities.
In summary, ECGs provide valuable information for diagnosing and monitoring heart-related
issues.
OBJECTIVES:
The main objectives of an Electrocardiogram (ECG) are to:
1. Detect Heart Abnormalities: Identify irregular heart rhythms, heart muscle damage, and other
cardiac issues.
2. Diagnose Heart Conditions: Aid in the diagnosis of conditions like arrhythmias, myocardial
infarctions (heart attacks), and cardiac hypertrophy.
3. Monitor Treatment: Assess the effectiveness of treatments for heart conditions and track
changes in heart health over time.
PREPARATIONS:
 Materials/Equipment’s Needed:
 ECG Machine: The device used to record the electrical signals of the heart.
 Electrodes: Small adhesive patches placed on the skin, typically on the chest, arms, and legs,
to detect and transmit electrical signals to the ECG machine.
 Conductive Gel: Sometimes used to improve the electrical contact between the skin and the
electrodes.
 Cables and Wires: These connect the electrodes to the ECG machine.
 Alcohol Wipes: Used for cleaning the skin before electrode placement to ensure good
contact.
 Scissors: To trim excess hair, if necessary, for better electrode attachment.
 Patient Gown or Clothing Access: To expose the areas where electrodes will be placed.

 Before the Electrocardiogram (ECG) Procedure

1. Appropriate Attire
Rationale: Patients should wear clothing that provides easy access to the chest area, facilitating
accurate electrode placement for reliable heart readings.
2. Skin Cleansing
Rationale: To ensure a strong electrical connection, the skin is wiped with alcohol to remove oils
and dirt, enhancing ECG accuracy.
3. Hair Trimming (if necessary)
Rationale: Excessive hair, if present, may be trimmed to secure electrodes firmly to the skin,
preventing interference with ECG signals.
 After the Electrocardiogram (ECG) Procedure (Nursing Responsibilities)
1. Electrode Removal
Carefully removing the electrodes from the patient's skin to ensure comfort and prevent skin
irritation.
2. Skin Inspection
Checking the skin for any redness, irritation, or allergic reactions that may have occurred during
electrode placement.
3. Data Documentation
Recording and documenting the ECG results in the patient's medical record for reference and
future comparison.

DIAGRAM/ILLUSTRATION:

REFERENCES:
 MayoClinic Organization (22, March 19). Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG).
Www.Mayoclinic.org. Retrieved September 1, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-
procedures/ekg/about/pac-20384983
 (2022, September 7). Electrocardiogram (ECG). Www.nhs.uk. Retrieved September 1, 2023,
from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/electrocardiogram/

MYRA S. BASI, RN, MN……….....

______________________________________
CLINICAL INSTRUCTOR……….…