On-site EKG testing is available at most locations
EKG testing by pediatric experts
Evaluation of results
Easy scheduling
Familiar faces
EKGs get to the heart of the matter
Electrocardiograms (EKGs) are an important clinical tool used to detect abnormal heart rhythms, heart murmurs, congenital heart defects, and other pediatric heart concerns. Your child may require an EKG as part of pre-participation sports clearance or as a follow-up for abnormal findings on a routine exam. We also use EKGs to help monitor existing congenital heart conditions.
Symptoms of potential heart issues
EKG testing will likely be performed if your child experiences any of the following symptoms:
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Fainting
All EKG evaluations are coordinated by your MD Kids Pediatrics care team, so pediatric specialists are always involved in your child’s heart care.
When cardiologist care is needed
A normal vs. abnormal EKG
A normal EKG shows a healthy and regular heartbeat with a consistent pattern of intervals (waves) between the beats. A child’s normal heart rate can range from 60 to 190 beats per minute, depending on their age.
An abnormal EKG reveals any irregularities in heart activity, such as beating too fast or too slow. Your child’s heart could also skip beats or have extra beats. Some of these variations are minor, while others can indicate serious issues like arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, or congenital heart defects (structural problems with the heart or blood vessels that are present at birth).
What to expect during an EKG
EKG testing is non-invasive and painless. Your pediatric provider attaches small, sticker-like electrodes to your child’s chest, arms, and legs, which are then connected by wires to the EKG machine to record their heart’s electrical signals.
Your child can watch videos or listen to music during the test to stay relaxed and still. Once the test is complete, the electrodes are removed. Our pediatric heart specialists then review the results to check for any abnormalities.