Cardiologist how-to

How to Read a 12-Lead EKG

A system catches subtle findings.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

A system catches subtle findings. In short: check; check; find, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Check rate.

  2. Check rhythm.

  3. Find the axis.

  4. Measure intervals.

  5. Look for ST changes.

  6. Compare to prior EKGs.

Safety reminders for cardiologists

  • Use radiation protection in cath labs
  • Follow sterile technique
  • Verify anticoagulation safely
  • Follow time-out procedures

EKG · Echocardiogram · Myocardial infarction · Heart failure · Arrhythmia · Atrial fibrillation: see the full cardiologist glossary.

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