What you can expect

An electrocardiogram can be done in a doctor's office or hospital and is often done by a nurse or technician.

Before

You may be asked to change into a hospital gown. If you have hair on the parts of your body where the electrodes will be placed, the technician may shave the hair so that the patches stick.

Once you're ready, you'll be asked to lie on an examining table or bed.

During

During an ECG, up to 12 sensors (electrodes) will be attached to your chest and limbs. The electrodes are sticky patches with wires that connect to a monitor. They record the electrical signals that make your heart beat. A computer records the information and displays it as waves on a monitor or on paper.

You can breathe normally during the test, but you will need to lie still. Make sure you're warm and ready to lie still. Moving, talking or shivering may distort the test results. A standard ECG takes a few minutes.

After

You can resume your normal activities after your electrocardiogram.