What Is an EKG Machine 5 Things to Know
Recently, there’s been a steady climb in serious heart complications. It’s highly likely that many of these cases didn’t receive the attention they needed. That is, if people would commit to consistent checkups, they could receive a thorough and proper diagnosis along with all necessary preventative measures.
What’s one way doctors can check for any heart issues? Well, a primary method involves an EKG machine. But, what does an EKG machine do? Essentially, it detects and documents the electrical impulses that cause the heart to contract.
While simplistic in nature, these machines are fantastic for detecting even the most minute issues related to the heart. If you’re interested in learning more, consider reading ahead.
EKG Machine: Reading the Heart
What does EKG stand for, exactly? It stands for electrocardiogram. EKG machines track a heart’s electrical impulses. This information can provide quite a few details regarding general heart health. Among these details, a doctor can find info about the sinus node, atrioventricular node, rate and rhythm of the heart, size and thickness of chambers, and the nerve conduction pathways to the heart.
The procedure for a resting EKG is simple enough. The patient lays down on an examination bed and removes clothing covering the chest. Electrodes are then attached to the patients legs, arms, and chest. The EKG machine is started while a computer records all activity detected by the machine. Finally, the electrodes are removed from the patient.
EKG Machine Types
There are three types of EKG machines. The resting EKG is the aforementioned procedure where a patient rests with electrodes attached to three parts of the body. The second is referred to as the exercise EKG, where a patient engages in physical activity while simultaneously being monitored. The third is the Holter monitor, an EKG that a person wears over long periods of time. It’s usually placed on a belt or around the neck.
EKG Machines are Durable
Given their simplistic nature, EKG machines tend to last for quite some time. In fact, there’s currently what some might consider a medical device surplus in the field. Clinics and hospitals are actually able to sell their used EKG machines at a very reasonable price.
Buyers might consider looking into purchasing them from entities that buy and sell used devices, as they’re still efficient after years of use. There’s no downside to using older machines, but it’s important to check for flaws before committing to a purchase.
Keeping Tabs On Heart Health
Why do you need an EKG? Well, they’re a fantastic way to get a deep look at your, or a patient’s, heart’s health. Medical professionals use them all the time, as they’re fast, efficient, and easy to use. They’re also one of few tools in the field of medicine that last quite some time. That is, used models can still sell after heavy use.
Hopefully, this article helped clear some doubts you had regarding EKG machines. If it did, consider taking a look around the site for other posts for more useful information!