Electrocardiography and pulmonary function testing play a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac and pulmonary disease. As a medical assistant, you may be required to perform these procedures in the medical office.

To understand electrocardiography, you need to know the basics of the conduction system of the heart and the components of an electrocardiograph. To obtain accurate electrocardiogram readings, you must properly place the electrodes and be able to recognize artifacts and correct them.

Likewise, to provide accurate assessments of pulmonary function, you must use proper technique and recognize the acceptability of a spirometric maneuver. Because patient compliance is crucial for accurate results, effective patient education is vital to the process.