What assessment technique uses electrodes placed on the chest wall to monitor heart activity?

The assessment technique that utilizes electrodes placed on the chest wall to monitor heart activity is the electrocardiogram (ECG). This non-invasive test is crucial for assessing the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. The electrodes detect the small electrical changes that are a result of heart muscle depolarization and repolarization during each heartbeat.

An ECG provides a visual representation of the heart's rhythm and can reveal abnormalities such as arrhythmias, heart attacks, or other heart conditions. It is a fundamental tool in diagnosing heart issues as it allows healthcare providers to understand how the heart functions in real-time.

In contrast, echocardiography uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart's structure and is primarily used to evaluate the heart's anatomy and function rather than electrical activity. A stress test assesses the heart's performance under physical stress but typically incorporates ECG monitoring rather than being a standalone technique. Electromyography (EMG) measures electrical activity in muscles and nerves, not in the heart, thus serving a different purpose entirely.