What should you know about a second-hand ECG machine?

An ECG machine records the heart's electrical activity through electrodes and leads placed on the skin. Age alone does not show whether a device is dependable. Missing leads, damaged cables, a failing display, outdated software, or an unreliable paper feed can affect the trace. Stored patient information may remain on internal memory, removable media, or connected systems, so privacy must be considered before the device changes hands.

Ask for the model, service history, operating instructions, and evidence of recent calibration or electrical-safety testing. Have biomedical engineering or an authorised service provider inspect the unit, leads, battery, power supply, and printer. Confirm that replacement electrodes and cables are compatible and available. Clean and disinfect patient-contact surfaces according to the manufacturer's instructions. Test the machine with a known simulator or approved method, and keep clinical interpretation with a trained healthcare professional.

A machine check is not a substitute for assessment of symptoms. Seek urgent medical care for chest pain or pressure, severe breathlessness, fainting, new confusion, or a racing or irregular heartbeat with weakness. Do not rely on a home or second-hand recording to decide that serious symptoms are harmless. If a trace is unclear or the device shows an error, arrange a repeat ECG through a healthcare service.

Ask whether the device is appropriate for its intended setting, who will service it, how often it needs testing, and how recordings will be stored securely. Ask how an abnormal or unreadable trace will be reviewed.