What should you know about a neonatal ECG machine?

An ECG captures electrical signals from the heart and displays them as a tracing. In a newborn, the tracing can help a clinical team investigate an irregular heartbeat, a fast or slow rate, or a concern found during examination or monitoring. The machine records activity; it does not itself decide the diagnosis. A clinician interprets the tracing in context and may compare it with the baby’s symptoms, oxygen level and other findings.

The team places soft adhesive electrodes on suitable areas of the baby’s chest and limbs, connects the leads, and keeps the baby as settled as possible while the recording is made. The test is usually quick. Skin may be cleaned first so the sensors stay attached. Tell staff if an electrode causes redness or if the baby has fragile skin. Follow the team’s instructions about feeding, holding and monitoring during the test.

Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, blue or grey colouring, collapse, unusual unresponsiveness, repeated pauses in breathing, or a baby who suddenly feeds much less. These signs require immediate clinical assessment, whether or not an ECG has already been performed. In a healthcare setting, call the nurse or doctor at once.

Why was the ECG requested? Was the rhythm or rate within the expected range? Does the tracing need review by a specialist? Will the baby need repeat monitoring or another test?