What Is an Electrocardiogram?

By jolene

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3. Continuous Monitoring and Screening

Continuous ECG monitoring can also be performed for individuals who are undergoing general anesthesia, those who are critically ill, and patients with infrequently occurring cardiac arrhythmia that cannot be detected in a conventional 10 second ECG. Continuous ECG monitoring can be performed using Holter monitors, pacemakers, internal or external defibrillators, and biotelemetry. There is little evidence to support the use of ECG for screening purposes. This is due to the possibility of the ECG falsely indicating the existence of an issue. This can result in misdiagnosis, unnecessary interventions that are invasive, and overtreatment. Those in certain occupations such as an aircraft pilot may be subjected to an ECG as part of their routine health evaluation.