Preparing for Your First ECG: What to Expect

An Electrocardiogram (ECG) records the electrical activity of your heart. It's quick, completely painless, and can detect everything from arrhythmias to early signs of a heart attack.

What happens during an ECG

1. You lie down on an examination bed.
2. A technician places 10 small sticky electrodes on your chest, arms and legs.
3. The machine records for about 10 seconds.
4. The electrodes come off. That's it — start to finish, usually under 5 minutes.

There's no electricity going into your body. The machine just listens.

How to prepare

• No fasting required. Eat and drink normally.
• Skip heavy meals and caffeine an hour before — they can briefly affect heart rate.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid lotions or oils on your chest that day.
• Bring any past ECGs or doctor's referral you have.

When you'll get results

At St. Luke's we provide a printed trace immediately and a digital report within 24 hours, ready to share with your physician.

Book your ECG

ECG is available at our Ja-Ela lab — walk in or call 071 123 1954 to reserve a time. See the full price list for cardiac and other tests.