Cardiology• Updated 21 October 2026
ECG (Electrocardiogram)
A quick, painless test that records the heart's electrical activity.
Results: Immediately
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To check heart rhythm and look for heart attacks, strain and other heart problems.
What It Measures
Heart rate, rhythm and electrical patterns.
Preparation
No preparation. Wear clothing that's easy to open at the chest.
Overview
Small sticky electrodes are placed on the chest, arms and legs.
An ECG takes a few minutes and is one of the first tests for chest pain.
What It Measures
Rhythm
Regular or irregular, such as AF.
Heart attack signs
Changes in the waves.
How It's Performed
- 01
Electrodes
Stickers on chest and limbs.
- 02
Recording
Lie still for a minute.
- 03
Done
Electrodes removed.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Electrocardiogram(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)(opens in a new tab) · NHS