What is the primary purpose of an EKG?

The primary purpose of an EKG, or electrocardiogram, is to monitor the electrical activity of the heart. This test records the timing and duration of each electrical phase in the heartbeat and provides crucial information about the heart's rhythm and overall health. By analyzing the electrical impulses that trigger heartbeats, healthcare providers can detect a variety of heart conditions, such as arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other cardiac abnormalities. Understanding the electrical function of the heart is essential for diagnosing issues that may not be apparent through other assessments, like imaging or physical examinations. Other options, like measuring blood pressure or assessing lung function, involve different tests and do not specifically relate to the unique role of an EKG in cardiology.