Which test is often used to assess the electrical activity of the heart?

The electrocardiogram (ECG) is specifically designed to assess the electrical activity of the heart. It measures the electrical impulses that trigger each heartbeat, giving valuable information about heart rate, rhythm, and electrical conduction abnormalities. During an ECG, electrodes are placed on the skin to detect the electrical signals generated by the heart. This allows healthcare providers to identify issues such as arrhythmias, ischemia, and other cardiac conditions that can affect the heart's electrical function.

In contrast, an echocardiogram uses ultrasound to create images of the heart's structure and assess its function, but it does not measure electrical activity. An X-ray is primarily used to visualize the structures of the chest and its contents, including the heart, but it doesn't provide information on electrical activity. A cardiac MRI offers detailed imaging of the heart's structure and function but also lacks the capability to directly assess electrical impulses. Therefore, the ECG remains the standard test for evaluating the heart's electrical activity.