Final answer:
To record a patient's heart rhythm, a medical assistant should use an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), which is a crucial tool for analyzing heart function and can provide continuous monitoring with a Holter monitor if needed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Recording a Patient's Heart Rhythm
A medical assistant preparing to record a patient's heart rhythm should use an electrocardiogram (ECG), also known as an EKG. This diagnostic tool involves the careful placement of surface electrodes on the body to record the heart's electrical activity. The standard electrocardiograph can use 3, 5, or 12 leads, with the 12-lead ECG being the most informative as it utilizes 10 electrodes placed in standard locations on the patient's skin. Continuous monitoring can be achieved with a portable Holter monitor, which records heart electrical activity for an extended period, typically 24 hours. The ECG is an indispensable tool in the clinical setting, allowing for the analysis of both normal and abnormal heart function.