What is an electrocardiogram (EKG)?

An electrocardiogram (EKG) is defined as a recording or tracing of the electrical activity of the heart. This diagnostic tool captures the changes in electrical potentials that occur during each heartbeat, providing valuable information about the heart's rhythm, size, and position, as well as any potential abnormalities.

When the heart beats, it generates electrical impulses that spread throughout the heart muscle, causing it to contract and pump blood. An EKG machine picks up these impulses through electrodes placed on the skin, creating a visual representation that can be analyzed by healthcare professionals.

This tracing is crucial in diagnosing various heart conditions, such as arrhythmias, ischemic heart disease, and other cardiac issues. Understanding the patterns in an EKG can help determine the overall health of the heart and guide further treatment if necessary.

The other options presented, such as measuring oxygen levels, being a type of medication, or a procedure for stenting arteries, do not accurately describe what an EKG is. They represent different aspects of cardiovascular health and treatment but do not relate directly to the function and purpose of an electrocardiogram itself.