An ECG scanner is essentially the system used to perform an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), a non-invasive medical test that records the electrical activity of your heart. It's not a single handheld device like a barcode scanner, but rather a collection of components working together.
Here's a breakdown:
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Electrodes: These are small, sticky patches that attach to your skin (chest, arms, and legs). They detect the tiny electrical signals produced by your heart.
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Wires (Leads): Wires connect the electrodes to the main ECG machine. These wires transmit the electrical signals from the electrodes.
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ECG Machine (Computer): This is the central processing unit. It amplifies the electrical signals received from the electrodes and converts them into a readable format, typically a wave-like tracing. The machine then displays or prints the ECG tracing, allowing a healthcare professional to analyze your heart's rhythm and electrical activity. Some ECG machines are portable, while others are larger and stationary.
Therefore, when someone refers to an "ECG scanner," they're generally referring to the entire system used to perform an ECG, including the electrodes, wires, and the ECG machine itself. The "scanning" aspect refers to the process of capturing and recording the heart's electrical signals over a period. Modern ECG "scanners" are usually digital and can store and transmit data electronically.
