An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a routine, non-invasive test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. During the short procedure, sensors are placed on the skin to detect the electrical signals produced by the heart as it beats. Proper preparation, particularly regarding clothing, can help ensure a quick, clean reading of these heart impulses. By wearing the right clothing, you can streamline the process for the technician and help avoid interference that could lead to inaccurate or unclear results.
Upper Body Clothing: Prioritizing Access and Ease
The most significant clothing consideration for an EKG involves the upper body, as several electrodes must be placed directly on the chest, arms, and torso. Wearing a two-piece outfit, such as a shirt with pants, is highly recommended instead of a dress or jumpsuit. A two-piece ensemble allows the technician to easily access the necessary areas without requiring complete disrobing, which respects privacy and speeds up the procedure.
The top layer should be loose-fitting and easily removable, like a button-down shirt or a simple T-shirt. In many cases, the patient is asked to remove their top entirely and is provided with a half-gown or sheet for privacy. Choosing a top that can be quickly slipped off or opened saves time and allows for the necessary placement of the chest electrodes. The limb electrodes are often placed on the inner wrists, requiring sleeves that can be easily rolled up past the elbow.
For female patients, the choice of bra is also a factor, as the chest electrodes must be placed precisely on the skin of the torso. It is generally best to avoid sports bras or full-coverage bras that are difficult to move, as they may cover the necessary electrode sites. Underwire bras are often discouraged or must be removed, as the metal can interfere with electrode placement or cause discomfort. While some technicians may allow a wireless bra to remain on by loosening the straps or shifting the garment, underwire bras are often discouraged.
Essential Removal: Metal, Jewelry, and Accessories
Any metallic objects worn near the testing sites should be removed before the EKG begins, as they can interfere with the delicate electrical signals being measured. Metal can create “artifact” on the EKG tracing, which appears as noise or distortion, making the reading inaccurate or difficult for the cardiologist to interpret. This interference occurs because the EKG measures voltage differences on the skin surface.
Patients should remove all necklaces, large or dangling earrings, and any metal body piercings located on the chest or torso. Wristwatches and bracelets should also be taken off, particularly if the limb electrodes are placed on the wrists. While internal metal implants like pacemakers or stents do not affect the EKG signal, external accessories must be cleared away to ensure a clean, reliable recording.
Practical Considerations for Lower Body Attire
While the upper body is the primary focus for electrode placement, the lower body also requires some consideration for comfort and minor access. Limb electrodes are typically placed on the lower torso, legs, or ankles, which means the patient will need to roll their pants up slightly. Wearing loose-fitting pants, such as sweatpants or loose trousers, is recommended because they can be easily manipulated without causing unnecessary constriction.
Pants should be easy to roll up above the ankle to allow electrode placement on the lower leg or near the hip bone, depending on the specific protocol. Tight clothing, such as hosiery or restrictive compression garments, should be avoided as they make it difficult to place the electrodes securely and comfortably. Since the EKG is performed while lying down, wearing comfortable, soft clothing contributes to the patient’s ability to remain still during the short, five- to ten-minute recording period.