I Have Some Questions About Electrocardio grams/graphs (EKGs or ECGs)

  • Medical
  • Thread starter chemistudent
  • Start date
In summary, ECG and EKG are two different abbreviations for the same thing - an electrocardiogram. There are no controversies surrounding ECGs or EKGs. However, it is important to be cautious when using information from Wikipedia as it can be edited by anyone. EKG is a more popular term for ECG as it is easier to say and hear.
  • #1
Has It caused any controversies?

How does It Work?

Any Additional Information would be helpful and much appricieated
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
chemistudent said:
Has It caused any controversies?

How does It Work?

Any Additional Information would be helpful and much appricieated

Welcome to the PF. Here is an introductory article to ECG:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrocardiogram

That should answer many of your initial questions. If you still have questions, please feel free to post them here in your thread.

As for controversies, can you say more about what you are looking for? In the EMS world, using portable 12-lead ECG monitoring to look for the STEMI characteristic in ECGs has lead to a very nice advance in patient care and survival from MIs. Not exactly controversial, but it's still a big advance in pushing advanced cardiac monitoring and reporting out into the ambulances and Fire rigs. That, coupled with the wireless reporting of the 12-lead traces back to the hospital, so that the ED staff can recommend a divert straight to the catheter lab. Good stuff.

What do you mean by controversial ECGs?
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Ok, thank you for the help I appreciate it.

I have realized that there are no controversies about ECGs and EKGs.

By the way, I have found wikipedia to be a not very reliable source. This is because anyone can edit its content.

I do have one more question:

Are ECGs and EKGs the same thing, just two different abbreviations for the same thing?
 
  • #4
chemistudent said:
Ok, thank you for the help I appreciate it.

I have realized that there are no controversies about ECGs and EKGs.

By the way, I have found wikipedia to be a not very reliable source. This is because anyone can edit its content.

I do have one more question:

Are ECGs and EKGs the same thing, just two different abbreviations for the same thing?

You are correct about wikipedia -- you have to be watchful for errors when using it. I only use it for basic information and pointers out to other sources, generally.

Yes, EKG is another way of saying ECG. I think it is popular because it is easier to say and hear clearly, compared to "eee-cee-gee".
 
  • #5
berkeman said:
You are correct about wikipedia -- you have to be watchful for errors when using it. I only use it for basic information and pointers out to other sources, generally.

Yes, EKG is another way of saying ECG. I think it is popular because it is easier to say and hear clearly, compared to "eee-cee-gee".


Ok thanks again, bekeman. What you said makes since. I think I understand now.
 

1. What is an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)?

An electrocardiogram, also known as an EKG or ECG, is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It is a non-invasive and painless way to monitor the heart's rhythm and detect any abnormalities.

2. How is an EKG performed?

An EKG is performed by attaching electrodes to the skin on the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes detect the electrical signals of the heart and transmit them to a machine that records the activity as a graph.

3. What does an EKG show?

An EKG shows the electrical activity of the heart, including the heart rate, rhythm, and any abnormalities in the heart's structure or function. It can help diagnose conditions such as heart attacks, arrhythmias, and other heart diseases.

4. How long does an EKG take?

An EKG typically takes 5-10 minutes to perform. However, it may take longer if the patient has a lot of chest hair, which may need to be shaved before the electrodes can be attached.

5. Are there any risks associated with an EKG?

An EKG is a non-invasive and safe procedure with minimal risks. Some patients may experience mild skin irritation or discomfort from the adhesive electrodes, but these symptoms usually go away quickly. There is also a small risk of an allergic reaction to the electrodes or the gel used to attach them.

Suggested for: I Have Some Questions About Electrocardio grams/graphs (EKGs or ECGs)

Back
Top