Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG is a quick, painless recording of the electrical signals that make the heart beat.
About this test
An ECG is a quick, painless recording of the electrical signals that make the heart beat.
Your physician uses the results alongside your symptoms, history and other testing to guide next steps.
Preparing for your appointment
How to prepare
Avoid oily skin creams or lotions on the day of the test because they can interfere with electrode contact. Wear a shirt that is easy to remove.
What to expect
A technician places adhesive electrodes on the chest, arms and legs. You rest quietly while the machine records the heart’s electrical activity. The appointment is brief and the actual recording takes only seconds.
After the test
You can resume normal activities. The tracing is reviewed and reported to your doctor.
Referring a patient?
Download the CardioLife referral form and fax the completed requisition to (403) 328-0619.