What can an electrocardiogram (ECG) provide information about?

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a diagnostic tool specifically designed to measure and record the electrical activity of the heart. It captures the electrical impulses that initiate and regulate heartbeats, allowing healthcare professionals to assess rhythm, rate, and the overall conduction pathway through the heart. This information is crucial for identifying various cardiac conditions, such as arrhythmias, heart block, and other electrical abnormalities.

While blood pressure levels, the physical structure of the heart, and oxygen content in the blood are important aspects of cardiovascular health, they are not directly measured by an ECG. Instead, blood pressure is assessed using a sphygmomanometer, the physical structure may be evaluated through imaging techniques like echocardiography or MRI, and oxygen content is typically assessed via pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas analysis. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the unique function of the ECG in providing insights specifically related to the heart's electrical activity.