IMPORTANCE OF NURSES IN PERFORMING AND INTERPRETING ELECTROCARDIOGRAM FOR QUALITY ASSISTANCE

Abstract

The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that evaluates the electrical activity of the heart and is used to analyze its performance by assessing the rhythm, speed, and number of beats. The ECG allows the identification of cardiovascular diseases, changes in coronary flow, and irregularities in heart rhythm and conduction. The technical and scientific knowledge of nurses is essential to provide quality and immediate care in the prevention of problems in the cardiovascular system, given that these professionals are involved in the initial and direct care of patients, providing comprehensive and continuous care, acting directly in the identification of early problems and consequently in the reduction of morbidity and mortality. Objective: to emphasize the importance of nurses in the execution and interpretation of the electrocardiogram. Methodology: this study is an integrative review of the literature. Data collection took place between October and November 2024 from the BVS, BDENF and LILACS databases, considering complete original articles, in Portuguese, published between 2010 and 2025. Results and discursions: It is important to understand that immediate and agile performance and compliance with recommendations for performing the electrocardiogram are decisive factors for quality patient care. In addition, adequate knowledge for interpreting the electrocardiogram is extremely important, requiring training for nursing practice in the face of the ECG. Conclusion: Therefore, it is essential that nursing professionals have access to continuing and permanent education for training related to the electrocardiogram, since the preparation of the nurse and his/her team is essential for the agile and quality treatment of the patient.