Cardiac function tests such as electrocardiography (EKG), cardiac catheterization, and Holter monitoring are used to evaluate the electrical activity and function of the heart. An EKG detects abnormal heart rhythms and damage by recording electrical impulses with pads placed on the body. A cardiac catheterization checks blood flow and pressures in the heart's vessels and chambers by inserting a catheter into the groin. A Holter monitor records heart rhythm over time outside the doctor's office by attaching electrodes to the chest for 1-2 days.

1. Cardiac Function Tests
By: Krystal Roberson
S
By: Krystal Roberson

2. Electrocardiography (EKG)
S Process of recording the
electrical activity of the heart
S Detects abnormal cardiac
rhythm and myocardium
damage

3. EKG Procedure
S Patient lays still on bed
S Small pads are placed on
arms, legs, and chest to help
with the conduction of
electrical impulses
S Several electrodes are
attached to the small pads
S The electrodes are hooked to
the machine which traces your
heart activity onto a paper

4. EKG Results
Normal Abnormal
S The heart beats in a S The heartbeat is too slow
regular rhythm usually 60 S ( less than 60 per
and 100 beats per minute minute)
S The tracing looks normal S The heartbeat is too fast
S ( more than 100 beats
per minute)
S The heart rhythm is not
regular
S The tracing does not look

5. Cardiac Catheterization
S Checks the blood flow in
the coronary
arteries, blood flow, and
blood pressure in the
chambers of the heart
S Checks how well the heart
valves work and defects in
the way the wall of the
heart moves

6. Procedure
S Patient lays still on table and are connected to an EKG
machine so that heart activity is recorded during the test
S Sedative is given via IV line for relaxation
S Cardiac catheter is inserted in groin and advances to
different parts of the hearts vessels and chambers
S Dye is injected into the heart and pictures of the arteries
are taken as the dye moves through them

7. Results
S A cardiologist reviews the results
S The results will tell whether:
S The coronary arteries are normal or have narrowing or
blockage
S The hearts pumping action and pressures are normal or
abnormal
S If the heart valves are working properly or not

8. Holter Moniter
S Portable EKG device
S Records heart rhythm over time
insider or outside doctors office
S Used two evaluate symptoms
that may be heart related

9. Procedure
S A technician fits you with the
monitor
S Five stickers are attached to your
chest and wires connect to them
and the monitor
S Usually worn for 1-2 days during
which no baths or shower can be
taken
S Patient keeps diary of any
symptoms that occur

10. Results
S Doctor looks over the monitor recorder and what you’ve
written in your activity diary
S The monitor may reveal a heart condition or your doctor
may need to do more tests to find out what are causing
the symptoms