ECG
ECG heart checks in Rutherford, quick and non-invasive.
An electrocardiogram (ECG) records your heart's electrical activity. It takes a few minutes in clinic and is reviewed by your GP.
A quick look at your heart's rhythm.
An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the electrical signals of your heart using small sticky electrodes on your chest, arms and legs. It can help your GP check your heart rhythm and look for signs of some heart conditions.
Rutherford Doctors offers ECGs in clinic. Consultations are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients. If you have chest pain, call 000.
Has your GP recommended an ECG?
How we can help.
Choose a topic to learn what is involved and when to see a GP.
Why an ECG
Common reasons your GP may suggest one.
A racing, fluttering or irregular heartbeat.
As part of a heart health assessment.
Before or during some medicines.
What it shows
Information about your heart.
Whether your heart rhythm is regular.
How fast your heart is beating.
Possible signs of some heart conditions.
What it cannot show
An ECG is a snapshot.
It records only while it is attached.
Holter monitors or other tests may be needed.
Your GP may refer you to a cardiologist.
Chest pain
An emergency.
For chest pain, pressure or tightness.
Do not drive yourself to hospital.
Do not wait for a clinic appointment.
Something else on your mind? Our GPs can help.
Heart tests explained.
Common heart tests your GP may arrange.
Electrocardiogram
12-lead ECG
Quick and painless.
Reviewed by your GP.
24-hour ECG
Holter monitor
Records rhythm over time.
Useful for symptoms that come and go.
Heart ultrasound
Echocardiogram
Shows heart structure and pumping.
Your GP can refer you.
Exercise test
Stress test
Checks the heart under exertion.
Your GP can refer you.
Your GP will explain which test you need and why.
Need a heart check?
Having an ECG.
What to expect.
Wear
Comfortable clothing
A top that is easy to remove or open helps.
Skin
Before your ECG
Avoid applying lotion to your chest on the day.
Call 000 for
- Chest pain, pressure or tightness
- Pain spreading to the arm, neck or jaw
- Severe shortness of breath
- Fainting or collapse
Step by step
- 1Prepare
You lie on the examination bed.
- 2Electrodes
Small sticky electrodes are placed on your chest, arms and legs.
- 3Record
The ECG records for a few minutes while you lie still.
- 4Review
Your GP reviews the tracing and explains the results.
Book your appointment.
Results
Your GP will discuss the results with you, and may suggest further tests.
Referral
If needed, your GP can refer you to a cardiologist.
Do I need an ECG?
Select your situation.
Book an appointment.
Our GPs.
Choose a GP or book the first available.
No preference? Book the first available GP.
ECG questions.
Does an ECG hurt?
An ECG does not usually hurt. It uses sticky electrodes on the skin and no needles.
How long does it take?
The recording takes a few minutes.
Is it bulk billed?
Consultations are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients.
What if I have chest pain?
Call 000. Do not wait for a clinic ECG.
Will I need more tests?
Your GP will advise if further tests are needed.
Further reading
Men's health checks worth booking in RutherfordThis page provides general information about ecg services at Rutherford Doctors. It is not a substitute for advice about your own health. Please book an appointment to discuss your situation. In an emergency, call 000.
