ECG (Heart Tests)
- On-site testing
- Painless & non-invasive
- Results reviewed by your GP
- No referral needed
- All ages
About this Service
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a simple, painless test that records the electrical signals produced by your heart. It is one of the most commonly ordered cardiac investigations in general practice — quick to perform, safe, and non-invasive.
At Shire Family Medical, ECGs are performed on-site by our nursing team under GP supervision and interpreted by your GP at the same appointment. Having ECG capability on-site means that for many patients, an important clinical question can be answered in a single visit rather than requiring a separate referral.
If you are experiencing chest pain, severe breathlessness, or palpitations that concern you right now, please call 000 or attend the nearest emergency department rather than booking a GP appointment. An ECG at a GP practice is for assessment of stable or chronic symptoms — not for emergencies.
Symptoms
Your GP may recommend an ECG if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms.
- Chest pain or tightness
- Palpitations or racing heart
- Irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Unexplained fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fainting or near-fainting
- Swollen ankles or legs
Indications
Beyond investigating symptoms, your GP may order an ECG as part of a broader clinical assessment.
Cardiovascular Risk Assessment
As part of a broader cardiovascular review, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes management.
Medication Monitoring
Certain medications — including stimulant medications used for ADHD — require a baseline ECG before commencement to screen for cardiac contraindications.
Pre-operative Assessment
Before elective surgery, particularly for older patients or those with cardiac history, an ECG may be requested by the surgeon or anaesthetist.
Sports & Fitness Medicals
Competitive athletes or patients starting a new exercise program with cardiac risk factors may be assessed with an ECG as part of a fitness review.
75+ Health Assessments
Before elective surgery, particularly for older patients or those with cardiac history, an ECG may be requested by the surgeon or anaesthetist.
Understanding the Test
An ECG is a valuable diagnostic tool but has specific clinical applications. Understanding its scope helps set appropriate expectations.
What an ECG can detect
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- Atrial fibrillation (AF)
- Evidence of previous heart attack
- Abnormalities in the heart's electrical conduction
- QT interval prolongation (relevant to some medications)
- Signs of left ventricular hypertrophy
- Some electrolyte abnormalities
What an ECG cannot detect
- Blocked arteries (coronary artery disease) — a normal ECG does not rule this out
- Future heart attacks
- Heart valve abnormalities (requires echocardiogram)
- Arrhythmias that are not present at the time of the test
- Overall cardiac function or pumping efficiency
A normal ECG does not necessarily mean your heart is completely healthy. If your GP has cardiovascular concerns, further investigations such as a stress test, echocardiogram, or specialist referral may still be recommended.
What to Expect
An ECG is quick and straightforward. Most patients find it entirely comfortable.
Preparation
You will be asked to remove clothing from your chest, arms, and lower legs and lie flat on the examination table. A gown or sheet is provided for your comfort and privacy.
Electrode Placement
Small adhesive electrodes are placed on your chest, wrists, and ankles. No needles are involved — the electrodes simply sit on the surface of the skin. A small amount of gel may be used to improve contact.
Recording
You will be asked to lie still and breathe normally while the machine records your heart's electrical activity. The recording takes approximately 10 seconds and the test itself is over in under 10 minutes.
GP Review & Discussion
Your GP will review the ECG trace and discuss the findings with you. If further investigation is required, your GP will explain the next steps — which may include referral to a cardiologist, a Holter monitor, or additional testing.
Preparation
In most cases, no special preparation is required. A few things to be aware of:
- Avoid applying body lotion, oils, or creams to your chest or legs on the day — these can interfere with electrode adhesion
- Wear loose or easily removed clothing for comfort
- Continue taking your regular medications as normal unless your GP advises otherwise
- Inform your GP of all medications you are taking — some affect the ECG trace
ADHD medication patients: If your ECG is required as part of the ADHD initial assessment with Dr Katrina Mikhail, a $40 supply fee applies for the ECG. See our ADHD Management page for full details.
After the test: There are no restrictions after an ECG. You can drive, return to work, and resume normal activities immediately.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical signals produced by your heart. Small adhesive electrodes are placed on your skin, and the machine produces a trace showing your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity. It helps your GP identify irregularities in heart rhythm or electrical conduction.
No. ECGs are completely painless. No needles are involved — small adhesive electrodes are simply placed on your skin. The machine passively records your heart’s electrical activity while you lie still. You do not feel anything during the recording itself.
The ECG recording itself takes approximately 10 seconds. The total appointment time — including preparation, electrode placement, the recording, and discussion of results with your GP — is typically under 30 minutes.
No special preparation is required in most cases. Avoid applying body lotion, oils, or creams to your chest or legs on the day of the test, as these can interfere with electrode adhesion. Continue taking your regular medications as normal unless advised otherwise by your GP.
Yes. Your GP will review your ECG trace and explain the findings during your appointment. If further investigation is required, your doctor will discuss next steps at the same visit.
Not necessarily. A normal ECG is reassuring, but it cannot detect all cardiac conditions. Blocked arteries, valve abnormalities, and arrhythmias that are not present at the time of the test will not appear on the trace. If your GP has cardiovascular concerns, further investigations may still be recommended despite a normal ECG result.
Standard consultation fees apply. Shire Family Medical is a mixed billing practice — Medicare rebates are processed on the day for eligible patients. An ECG performed as part of the ADHD initial assessment attracts a supply fee. See our Fees page for full details.
Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can have cardiovascular effects. A baseline ECG screens for any pre-existing cardiac abnormalities — such as a prolonged QT interval — that could represent a contraindication to prescribing. This is a standard precaution before commencing stimulant medication, and is performed on-site as part of the initial ADHD management appointment with Dr Katrina Mikhail.
Book an ECG Heart Test
On-site, painless, and reviewed by your GP on the day. Book online or call our reception team.
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