An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a medical test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It uses electrodes placed on the skin to capture the electrical signals generated during heartbeats and plots a graph that shows the frequency, rhythm, and strength of the electrical impulses.

Benefits of the electrocardiogram:

1. Detection of heart problems: Helps identify arrhythmias, myocardial infarctions, heart failure, and other heart conditions.
2. Heart monitoring: Allows tracking of the heart's condition in patients with a history of heart diseases or after surgical procedures.
3. Early diagnosis: Facilitates the early detection of cardiac abnormalities, even without evident symptoms.