The first step in the the orderly approach for 12-lead ECG interpretation is evaluation of the clinical history. This information often helps to put the ECG tracing into context and can help us to focus.
Clinical history
At the top of the ECG tracing you will find the date, the patient’s name, age and gender. Usually the reason for ECG the ECG will also be recorded. This is typically a clinical symptom and/or a diagnosis such as “chest pain” or “myocardial infarction”. This historical information can often be helpful in arriving at your final ECG interpretation.