12 Lead ECG Explained: A Complete Guide to the Test and Its Importance
A 12 lead ECG is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that records the heart’s electrical activity from 12 different perspectives using 10 electrodes, helping clinicians assess heart rhythm and detect abnormalities. This guide breaks down how electrodes are placed, the role of P waves, QRS complexes, and T waves, and why accurate placement matters for trustworthy results. Understanding this ECG test can help patients grasp why it’s essential for diagnosing arrhythmias, heart attacks, and conduction issues.