What is the primary purpose of a 12-lead EKG?

The primary purpose of a 12-lead EKG is to assess the electrical activity of the heart from multiple angles. A 12-lead EKG captures electrical signals as the heart beats, providing a comprehensive view of the heart's electrical activity from various positions. Each of the 12 leads offers a unique perspective, allowing healthcare professionals to identify abnormalities in heart rhythm, size, and cardiac axis or to diagnose conditions such as ischemia or hypertrophy. This multidimensional analysis is crucial for accurately diagnosing a range of cardiac conditions and making informed decisions about patient care.

The other options focus on functions that are not the primary role of an EKG. Measuring blood pressure, evaluating respiratory functions, and determining body temperature are separate assessments and do not provide insights into the heart's electrical activity, which is the central focus of a 12-lead EKG.