Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) Recording
This test measures the electrical activity of your heart using electrodes placed on your skin. It helps assess heart rhythm, detect abnormalities, and identify potential issues like blockages or damage.
["An ECG can reveal hidden heart problems that might not cause symptoms."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58253-6
- Short code
- ELECTROCARDIOGRAMSRECORDED
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What the Test Measures
An ECG records the heart’s electrical signals over time, producing a graphical tracing of the heart’s electrical activity. This includes the timing and strength of electrical impulses as they travel through the heart’s chambers and conduction system. The test can identify irregular rhythms, heart blockages, or signs of heart damage.
Common Uses and Why It’s Done
Doctors may order an ECG to check for heart conditions before surgery, monitor symptoms like chest pain or dizziness, evaluate heart health after a heart attack, or screen for risks in people with a family history of heart disease.
Preparation and Process
No special preparation is needed. You’ll lie down comfortably while electrodes are attached to your chest, arms, legs, and sometimes your legs. The electrodes detect electrical signals, and the results are recorded on paper or a digital device.
What to Expect During the Test
The procedure is quick and painless. You may feel a slight tingling sensation from the electrodes, but no needles or injections are used. The test typically takes 5–10 minutes. You can usually resume normal activities immediately afterward.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An ECG can reveal subtle heart issues, such as arrhythmias (irregular rhythms), ischemic changes (signs of reduced blood flow), or signs of heart damage from conditions like hypertension or previous heart attacks. It’s a critical tool for diagnosing and guiding treatment for heart-related problems.
Short name
ECG/EKG Recording
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get an ECG?
What does an abnormal ECG mean?
Can I eat or drink before an ECG?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy