Share:

When it comes to biosensor applications, EKG and ECG are two abbreviations most people are familiar with but don’t understand exactly. Though commonly confused, both terms actually refer to the same procedure, called an electrocardiogram. An electrocardiogram is a biosensor used to measure the heart’s electrical activity and record the pattern of its beats. This is a common procedure that’s usually performed by an EKG technician in a hospital or cardiology office.

What Is An Electrocardiogram? 

An electrocardiogram is a painless, non-invasive procedure that takes mere minutes to undergo. An EKG technician asks the patient to lie down on a bed or examination table and remain as still as possible. Small stickers known as electrodes are then attached to the patient’s chest and limbs and connected to an EKG machine. These electrodes then collect information on the heart’s electrical activity and transmit them to the machine.

EKG TechnicianWhat Do The Results Indicate?

The information transmitted to the EKG machine is interpreted by a physician to determine whether there are abnormalities in the heart’s beats or rhythm. Patterns that are either too fast or too slow often indicate that the heart has anomalous electrical activity. A doctor can also identify an irregular heart beat, which could indicate a problem with the synchronization of the heart’s inner chambers.

Why Are There Different Names For The Same Procedure?

While EKG and ECG refer to the same procedure, the former is more commonly used in the United States and is derived from the German word elektrokardiogramm, which was the term used by the Dutch doctor and physiologist who invented the first practical use of the procedure. On the other hand, ECG is more widely used in the UK and many other countries around the world. Both abbreviations are acceptable and a matter of personal preference.

If you’re interested in learning more about electrocardiograms, explore the opportunities available at Big Apple Training to become an EKG technician. Established over 20 years ago in the Bronx and White Plains, New York, Big Apple Training offers flexible and affordable classes for you to develop a career in allied health. To learn more about becoming an EKG technician and the upcoming course schedule, call Big Apple Training at (914) 437-7373 (White Plains) or (718) 231-3600 (Bronx). You can also visit their website and connect on Facebook.   

tracking