Electrocardiogram 2: interpretation and signs of heart disease

This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

In this article…

• The six steps to interpreting a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG)

• What different wave patterns mean for potential diagnosis

• Common ECG changes in myocardial infarction

Abstract

An electrocardiogram assesses the heart's electrical activity. It is commonly used as a non-invasive monitoring device in many different healthcare settings. This article, the second in a three-part series, focuses on interpretation and the importance of being able to quickly identify key signs of myocardial infarction.