Perform routine Electrocardiograph (ECG) Procedures

This standard covers performance of recording Electrocardiograph (ECG) at rest and ambulatory Electrocardiograph (ECG) procedures.

It includes connection and disconnection of electrodes and acquisition of data ready for analysis.

The procedures may be performed in a number of care settings such as outpatient departments, ward areas and GP practices.

---

1. access and accurately interpret all relevant work instructions and information
2. work safely at all times and in accordance with all relevant legislation, guidelines, policies, procedures and protocols
3. deal promptly and effectively with any problems within your control and report those which cannot be solved
4. identify and minimise hazards and risk in the workplace
5. communicate with the individual and key people at a pace, in a manner and at a level appropriate to the individual's understanding, preferences and needs
6. respect the individual's rights and wishes relating to their privacy, beliefs, and dignity
7. provide support to the individual and carers and ensure health and safety measures are implemented at all times
8. apply standard **precautions for infection prevention and control and other appropriate health and safety measures
9. confirm the individual's identity and reason for referral
10. gain valid, informed consent from the individual in accordance with specific procedures
11. identify any special needs which may affect performance of the test or influence results
12. ensure the comfort, safety, security and general condition of the individual and yourself throughout the procedure
13. obtain assistance and advice where alternative arrangements are required to meet special needs
14. confirm the individual is fit to undergo the procedures
15. confirm that the individual understands the need for recording signs and symptoms, throughout an electrocardiograph
16. establish suitability of characteristics and operational parameters of equipment
17. correctly label documents and recording devices with organisational requirements
18. inform and instruct the individual on the procedure and requirements for their compliance
19. encourage the individual to relax and remain immobile during procedure where the electrocardiograph is performed at rest
20. prepare sites and position electrodes to optimise results, taking account of special needs identified
21. test and run monitoring device and check quality of output
22. inform the individual of next action
23. complete and store all relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements

---

1. the current legislation, guidelines, policies, procedures and protocols which are relevant to your work practice and to which you must adhere
2. the scope and limitations of your own competence, responsibilities and accountability as it applies to your job role
3. how to access and interpret all relevant work instructions and information
4. specific procedures for reporting issues which are beyond your competence, responsibilities and accountability
5. the duty to report any acts or omissions that could be unsafe/detrimental to you or others
6. the hazards and risks which may arise during the execution of your work role and how you can minimise these
7. how to adapt communication styles in ways which are appropriate to the needs of the individual  
8. the correct use of any equipment and PPE to protect the health and safety of you and others
9. the principles, practice and procedures associated with informed consent
10. the needs of individuals and carers including issues relating to dignity, confidentiality, and privacy
11. organisational management structures, roles, and responsibilities
12. the importance of applying standard precautions to the performing of routine electrocardiographs of competence and the potential consequences of poor practice
13. any special needs the individual may have which may affect performance or quality of ECG
14. the importance of ensuring immobility for electrocardiograph at rest
15. the clinical conditions and reasons for referral for electrocardiograph examinations
16. the effect of postural and respiratory changes on electrocardiograph results
17. the structure and function of the heart
18. the conduction system of the heart
19. the normal electrocardiograph
20. the type and common characteristics of recording devices used in electrocardiograph procedures and how to set up and test
21. the relevant equipment quality assurance procedures
22. the purpose of electrocardiograph procedures
23. the correct positioning of electrodes for at rest and ambulatory electrocardiograph procedures and why this is important
24. potential electrical interference and sources of artefact and how to recognise them
25. how to check that the electrocardiograph trace is clear to enable accurate reading and analysis
26. the importance of accurately recording the individual's signs/symptoms during ambulatory electrocardiograph procedures
27. the disclosure and confidentiality requirements in respect of medical and the individual's information
28. how to complete and safely store all relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

2

---

2026

---

Current

---

Original

---

Skills for Health

---

SFHCHS130

---

Health and Social Care, Health and Social Services Officers, Health Associate Professionals, Health Professionals, Health, Public Services and Care, Healthcare and Related Personal Services

---

2259

---

Perform, Electrocardiograph

---