Navigating EKGs at Urgent Care: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Can Urgent Care Do EKGs?

Because EKGs are an important diagnostic tool that can save lives, many urgent care clinics are equipped to perform and interpret the results. In fact, many urgent care centers offer a range of diagnostic services that make them a convenient and cost-effective option for non-life-threatening medical issues.

Below you will find what you need to know about going to urgent care—and what to expect if you need an EKG.

What is Urgent Care?

Urgent care clinics are medical facilities that provide immediate care for non-life-threatening medical conditions. They are designed to be a convenient way to get walk-in medical care when you cannot get an appointment with your primary care physician or you need care outside of regular business hours.

Types of Medical Procedures Urgent Care Facilities Can Perform

Urgent care facilities can perform a wide range of medical tests, including X-rays, blood tests, ultrasounds, and minor procedures such as stitches, physical exams, and wound care. They are equipped with the medical equipment and trained professionals necessary to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. Some common reasons people choose to visit an urgent care clinic include:

• Respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and influenza
• Skin rashes and insect bites
• Minor lacerations that may need stitches
• Joint sprains and muscle strains
• UTI testing and treatment
• STD testing and treatment
• Simple bone fractures
• Physical examinations for overall wellness

Can Urgent Care Facilities Perform EKGs?

Many urgent care facilities can perform EKGs, however, some may not. If you are searching for an urgent care clinic that can perform an EKG, you may want to consider calling ahead to find out if the urgent care of your choice offers this service.

Insurance Coverage for EKGs at Urgent Care Facilities

Many insurance plans offer coverage for EKGs if they are medically indicated. This includes EKGs that are performed in an urgent care setting. However, it's important to check with your insurance provider to confirm your specific coverage and any out-of-pocket costs you may have.

Risks and Limitations of EKGs

EKGs are considered a safe and non-invasive procedure. However, they may not detect all heart conditions, and repeat testing may be needed in some cases according to the NIH.

Common Misconceptions About EKGs

The most common misconceptions about EKGs are that they are painful or require extensive preparation. The Mayo Clinic notes that these misconceptions are false and that EKGs are painless and require no special preparation.

Patient Privacy and Confidentiality During EKG Procedures

Urgent care facilities are required by HIPAA to maintain patient privacy and confidentiality during all medical exams and procedures, including EKG procedures. Patient records are protected by federal and state privacy laws, and staff are usually required to take training that helps them understand how to maintain patient privacy and confidentiality.

Reasons You May Need to Get an EKG

If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate a heart problem, or if you have a medical condition that puts you at risk for heart disease, your medical provider may recommend that you get an electrocardiogram (EKG) done. Here are more reasons why you might need to get an EKG:

Symptoms That May Require an EKG

If you are experiencing certain symptoms, your doctor may recommend that you get an EKG done to diagnose or rule out a complication with your heart. The according to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms that may warrant an EKG include:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting or near-fainting
• Fatigue or weakness

It is important to remember that if you are having any of these symptoms, you should seek emergency care immediately.

Medical Conditions That May Require an EKG

If you have certain medical conditions, your doctor may recommend that you get an EKG done to either diagnose or rule out related conditions. According to the Mayo Clinic, these certain medical conditions include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Family history of heart disease
• Previous heart attack or stroke
• Heart murmur
• Arrhythmia or other heart rhythm problems

Benefits of Early Detection and Treatment of Heart Conditions

According to the Mayo Clinic, getting an EKG done can help detect heart problems early, which can improve your chances of successful treatment. If you have a heart condition, an EKG can help your doctor monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as needed, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition, the Cleveland Clinic notes that if you are at risk for heart disease, getting an EKG done can help your doctor evaluate your heart health and recommend lifestyle changes or other interventions to help prevent heart disease.

Getting an EKG at Urgent Care

If you need an EKG (and are not having any symptoms of a life-threatening illness) but don't have time to wait for an appointment with your primary care physician, an urgent care clinic is a great alternative for getting fast and cost-effective care.

Finding an Urgent Care Facility that Performs EKGs

Not all urgent care facilities offer EKGs, so it's important to check with your local urgent care clinics beforehand. You can do this either by calling, checking the websites of urgent care clinics near you, or by using Solv to check the services offered by urgent care clinics in your area.

Preparing for an EKG

There is no preparation needed for EKGs according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, there are some things that you can do to help yourself be more comfortable. One thing you can do is to wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your chest. You can also avoid wearing jewelry or clothing with metal zippers or buttons, as these can interfere with the EKG reading. You may also want to avoid eating a heavy meal or drinking caffeine or alcohol before the procedure, as these things can possibly interfere with the EKG reading, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

What to Expect During an EKG

When you arrive at the urgent care clinic, you will likely be asked to fill out intake paperwork and provide information about your medical history. Once you are ready, a technician will attach electrodes to your chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes are connected to a machine that records your heart's electrical activity.

During the procedure, your technician may ask you to lie still and breathe normally. The technician may also ask you to hold your breath briefly at certain points during the test, according to the NIH. The entire procedure usually takes less than 10 minutes.

After the procedure, the results will be reviewed by a medical professional who is trained to read EKGs. If the results are abnormal, you may be referred to a cardiologist for further testing and treatment.

What Happens After Getting an EKG?

Once the EKG is completed, the results will be interpreted by a medical professional. The results are usually interpreted within a few minutes unless they need to be sent to a specialist for confirmation. Based on the results, further testing or referral to a specialist may be necessary.

Interpreting the Results

The EKG results will show the electrical activity of your heart. A normal EKG will show a regular rhythm and no signs of damage to the heart muscle. An abnormal EKG may indicate an irregular rhythm, damage to the heart muscle, or other heart conditions, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Referral to a Cardiologist or Other Specialist Based on EKG Results

If your EKG results are abnormal, your urgent care provider may refer you to a cardiologist or other specialist for further evaluation and treatment. The specialist will work with you to determine the best course of action based on your results, history, and individual needs.

Follow-up Testing After an Abnormal EKG Result

Additional testing is sometimes necessary after an abnormal EKG result. These tests will further evaluate the heart's function and structure. According to the Mayo Clinic, additional testing may include:

• A stress test
• Echocardiogram
• Blood tests
• Other imaging tests such as MRIs or CT-scans

Follow-up Care and Treatment

If your EKG results indicate a possible heart condition, your urgent care provider or specialist will work with you to develop a treatment plan. According to the American Heart Association, this may include monitoring, medication, lifestyle changes, or other interventions to manage your condition and prevent further damage to the heart.

A Recap of the Importance of EKGs

EKGs are an important diagnostic test for people who are at higher risk of heart disease, according to the American Heart Association. The Mayo Clinic notes that the following are reasons you may be at higher risk of heart disease:

• A family history of heart disease
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol

EKGs are also recommended for those who are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations. These EKGs should be done in an emergency department.

An EKG can detect abnormalities in heart rhythm and identify if there is any damage to the heart muscle. Early detection of heart problems can help prevent serious complications and even save lives, according to the Mayo Clinic.

When to go to Urgent Care for an EKG

If you are experiencing symptoms of a potential heart problem, or have a medical condition that effects your heart, it is important to get an EKG if your healthcare provider recommends it. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications and even death, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Urgent care clinics often offer convenient and cost-effective options for individuals who need an EKG. They have trained medical professionals who can perform the test and provide immediate care and referrals if needed.

Don't hesitate to seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms or medical conditions that require an EKG. Remember, early detection and treatment can save lives!