Final answer:
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a diagnostic tool used to record and evaluate the electrical activity of the heart for the purpose of diagnosing irregular heart function. It is essential for assessing the state of a patient's cardiac conduction system and can use varying numbers of leads for different levels of detail. A Holter monitor is a version of an ECG for continuous, ambulatory monitoring.
Step-by-step explanation:
A diagnostic tool used to evaluate the cardiac conduction system is an electrocardiogram (ECG). The ECG is a surface recording of the electrical activity of the heart that can be used for the diagnosis of irregular heart function. Doctors may employ this method in routine physicals to check for any electrical activity problems with the heart. By attaching electrodes to the body, the ECG captures a tracing of the electrical signal which provides a comprehensive picture of heart health. The standard electrocardiograph can use 3, 5, or 12 leads, giving a range of detailed information depending on the number of leads used.
The term "lead" in this context typically describes the voltage difference between two of the electrodes. A 12-lead electrocardiograph uses 10 electrodes placed in standard locations on the patient's skin. This diagnostic tool is indispensable in a clinical setting, as it can reveal both normal and abnormal heart function. For those needing continuous monitoring, a portable device known as a Holter monitor may be used. It's a small, battery-operated device that continuously records heart electrical activity, normally for a 24-hour period during the patient's regular activities.