Electrocardiogram (ECG) at rest

An electrocardiogram (ECG) at rest measures and records the electrical activity of the heart to determine if it is normal or irregular.

An ECG test is used to diagnose cardiac problems such as:

  • A recent or occurring heart attack
  • Cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm)
  • Coronary artery blockage
  • Damages to the heart muscle, enlargement of the heart or inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart

The ECG is also used to monitor the progression of a heart disease, the recovery of a patient from a heart attack or the effectiveness of medications. The ECG is useful to detect lung diseases and to rule out a patient’s potential heart problems before undergoing a surgery.

The ECG is provided by the Cardiology Clinic.

How to access our services?

You must have a referral from your physician to pass an ECG test, but you don’t need to book an appointment.

Please report to the Cardiology reception between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday.

About The Program

What to bring

  • Valid Health Card
  • Physician’s referral

When you arrive

  • Please report directly to the reception of the Cardiology Clinic.

How the electrocardiogram (ECG) is performed

  • An ECG at rest is painless and does not require physical effort.
  • You will have to remove your clothing and jewellery and wear a hospital gown.
  • The test is done while you lie on your back, on an examination table.
  • Electrodes are attached to your chest, arms and legs. The technologist may shave the skin or use a light sandpaper to ensure the electrodes adhere to your skin. Please ensure your skin is clean, dry and free of any oils or creams.
  • The electrodes are connected to a machine that records the electrical activity of the heart.
  • The test takes from 5 to 10 minutes.

Test results

  • The cardiologist will analyze the recorded data and send a written report to the referring physician within 10 working days.
  • Results will also be available in your electronic medical record. For information on the creation of an account and how to access your electronic medical record, visit MyChart.

The team

  • Cardiologist
  • Cardiology technologist

Business hours

Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To book an appointment

613-632-1111, option 1, 1
Toll-free 1-800-790-8870, option 1

Fax

613-636-6175

To reach the Cardiology Department

Telephone: 613-632-1111, extension 51201
Fax: 613-636-6178

Address

HGH – Main Campus
1111 Ghislain Street
Hawkesbury, ON K6A 3G5

The Cardiology Clinic is located in Block A, Level 1. View the hospital plan.

External resources

Referring a patient for an ECG at HGH Cardiology Clinic

To refer a patient, download the exam request form, fill it out and fax it to 613-636-6175.

Appointment booking line: 1-800-790-8870, extension 82500

 

The Hawkesbury and District General Hospital (HGH) provides more than 40 specialized medical clinics for residents of Prescott-Russell and surrounding region. For a list of clinics, departments and services, visit Refer a patient.