JORGENSEN J1010, Manual

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GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR ECG
The ECG tracing is a valuable diagnostic tool, and their interpretation can be a
challenging task for the clinician and staff. However, with some simple study, the ECG
will be an indispensable clinical parameter.
Some recommended indications for the use of the ECG include:
¾ Any animal with a heart murmur or arrhythmia detected with a stethoscope.
¾ Any animal with episodes of weakness or fainting, exercise intolerance, or
sudden changes in activity level..
¾ A hypothyroid dog or hyperthyroid cat.
¾ Any animal with hypotension or hypertension.
¾ Any patient being treated for congestive heart disease should have follow-up
tracings as part of maintenance and control of the disease.
¾ Electrolyte imbalances such as Addison’s disease.
¾ Breeds with predispositions to heart disease, such as Persian cats and
Doberman Pinschers.
¾ Geriatric exams can be greatly enhanced by the addition of a LEAD II rhythm
strip screening.
Should suspicious tracings exist, then a full 6-lead cardiograph analysis is
recommended.
An ECG recording should always be evaluated in conjunction with complete
patient history, clinical findings, radiographs, blood chemistries including
electrolytes and blood gases, and urinalysis. The recording is not by itself a
complete diagnosis but rather a look at the electrical activity of the myocardium,
that can be affected by many disorders along with artifactual interference.
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