Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)
CCMA conducts EKG tests to trace the electrical activity of the heart rhythm when a patient has chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, dizzy spells, syncope, and/or feeling an abnormal heart rhythm. The results give CCMA physicians a look at multiple angles of the heart's electrical activity and helps, along with other tests, to diagnose any abnormalities. Physicians can also compare it to past tests to determine changes in a patient’s condition. If the EKG is abnormal then a stress test or other further cardiac testing may be ordered.
To perform the test, a CCMA technician places 10 recording leads on the patient’s body. There is one lead on each arm, one on each leg and six on the chest around the heart. The test only takes a few minutes, while the patient lies on their back. It does not hurt and has no side effects.