Electrocardiogram

This test indicates the morphology of the heart's electrical activity at a given time. To determine this, electrodes are placed on the chest and extremities. The electrodes have a kind of sticker with the lower part covered with gel and a small metallic upper area for connecting them to the EKG machine. These electrodes are arranged in a specific way: 6 are placed along the left side of the chest and 4 others are put at the ends, or beginnings, of the arms and legs. A cable then connects these electrodes to a device that translates the detected electrical activity into a 12-lead recording. This record can be saved in digital format or printed on paper.  

The EKG is usually performed while you are lying on your back on a stretcher. The chest must be exposed so that the pectoral electrodes can be put in place. Often, the extremity electrodes are placed directly onto the wrists and ankles, so these must also be uncovered. After the electrodes have been attached, the cables are connected and the recording is carried out, which is usually quick (less than a minute). You have to keep still to avoid any changes during the recording. Once the recording is complete, the cables are disconnected and the electrodes removed.

Complications are extremely rare; skin irritation occurs only in those people who have an allergy or sensitivity to the electrode material. 

You do not need to take any special measures before the test. The only recommendation is to wear clothing where the top part is easy to remove or open.