What is the main function of an electrocardiogram (ECG)?

The main function of an electrocardiogram (ECG) is to assess heart rhythm and electrical activity. This test records the electrical signals that trigger each heartbeat, which provides valuable information on how well the heart is functioning. By analyzing these signals, healthcare providers can identify various heart conditions, such as arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other cardiac abnormalities.

This test is non-invasive and typically involves placing electrodes on the patient's skin to capture the heart’s electrical activity over a period of time. The resulting ECG trace displays the timing of electrical impulses across the heart, which is essential for diagnosing and monitoring heart health.

In contrast, other options are related to entirely different functions. For instance, measuring lung capacity pertains to respiratory function and is performed through pulmonary function tests. Evaluating bone density involves specialized imaging techniques like dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to assess osteoporosis and bone health. Detecting tumors typically requires different imaging modalities, such as MRIs or CT scans, which are designed to visualize soft tissues and masses.