Resting ECG

A resting ECG is used to evaluate patterns of change in the electrical activity of your heart at rest. There are normal patterns of changes in the electrical activity of your heart. The changes in the pattern of the electrical activity are recorded in the ECG during the test to diagnose any issues. The test allows for assessment of chest pain, risk stratification and evaluation of patients with rare-responsive pacemakers.

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Test Preparation

• Do not apply any lotion, cream or oil to the chest area on the day of the test.

What to Bring

• Please wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing (athletic clothing) and running shoes.
• Please bring your health card with you to your appointment.
• If you are not covered through OHIP, please bring any insurance information.
• Bring a list of your current prescription medications and vitamins/supplements.

Other Notes

• If you do not speak or understand English, please ensure you can bring someone to your appointment that can communicate and understand English, and that they can stay for the full duration of your appointment.

Arrival Time

• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to check-in.
• If you are running late, please call the clinic to confirm if you will still be able to proceed with your appointment.
• If you late cancel or no show for your appointment, you may be charged a cancellation fee.

During the Test

• Several electrode pads will be placed on your chest to obtain an ECG (men may need to have a small area of their chest shaved). Electrodes are connected to the ECG, which monitors your heart rhythm throughout the test. A cuff is placed around your arm to measure your blood pressure.
• The approximate duration is 10 mins, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

After the Test

• You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete, unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise.

Contact Details

• To reach us directly by email, please contact [e-mail].
• You can reach us by phone at 1-877-564-5227, extension 2. Our call centre is open Monday to Fridays from 8am-6pm, and Saturdays from 9am-5pm. If you have a next-day or same-day appointment, you can reach us outside of our call centre hours, by pressing extension 7.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I access my medical images and reports through PocketHealth?

• Resting ECG are not available through PocketHealth. If you would like copies of your resting ECG tracings, they can be provided for a fee upon request. If the request is made by your physician, the tracings can be faxed directly to the doctor's office at no charge. 

How can I get a written report?

• If you would like a copy of your report, please reach out to the referring doctor. You can also email us to obtain a written report.

How do I get to the clinic?

• For directions to the clinic and the nearest major intersection, please see Locations & Directions

Can I proceed with the appointment if I am on oxygen?

• We’ll need to understand why you’re on oxygen to determine if we can proceed. Depending on the underlying condition, we may not be able to proceed with the appointment.

Can I smoke before the test?

• Yes, you can smoke before the test.

Is it okay to wear body lotion or perfume for my appointment?

• Please do not wear any scented products to the appointment.

What if I've misplaced my health card?

• You can still attend your appointment if you bring a printed copy, photocopy, or photo of your health card.

Will there be any out-of-pocket costs?

• Most services, including Specialist Consults and diagnostic testing, are covered by OHIP.
• If you're paying privately, some insurance providers can be billed directly.
• In other cases, you may need to pay upfront and submit the receipt to your insurance.
• If you do not have OHIP coverage, out-of-pocket payment is required.

I do not have insurance or OHIP. How much will my test cost?

• For a list of uninsured services and costs, please review the following article: Uninsured Services.

Do you have wifi at the clinics?

• Yes, we have wifi available.

Where can I provide feedback or file a complaint?

• You can provide feedback or file a complaint by filling out the following form.

Can you provide a doctor's note that can send to my employer?

• Yes, we can provide work letters on the day of your appointment. Please ask the reception team.

Can I get a flu shot prior the appointment?

• You can get a flu shot prior to the appointment. This will not have any affect on the test results.

Are there any fasting requirements?

• No, there are no fasting requirements for this test. You can eat normally before your ECG.

What should I wear to the appointment?

• Wear comfortable clothing. A two-piece outfit is best, since you will need to undress from the waist up. A gown will be provided for your comfort and privacy, and the technologist will keep you covered as much as possible during the test.

Am I able to drive after the test?

• This test does not affect your ability to drive. You may resume your normal activities after the test. (e.g. go to work after).

Can I work out or exercise prior to my test?

• Yes, you can work out or exercise prior to your test.

Can I take antihistamines prior to the appointment?

• Yes, antihistamines are ok to take before your appointment. This includes, for example Benadryl, Reactine, Aerius, Claritin, Allegra and Blexten.