ECG

A diagnostic tool that measures and records the electrical activity of the heart. ECG is recorded by applying electrodes and connecting them to a recording apparatus.

Uses of ECG
Evaluation of function of cardiac pacemakers Myocardial ischemia and infarction Determination of effects of cardiac drugs Systemic diseases that affects the heart Disturbances in electrolyte balance Detect delay of atrial and ventricular impulses Determines origin and behavior of Dysrhtmias

 3 lead ECG
Cardiac monitoring, emergency, ambulance; 3 electrodes

5 lead ECG
ICU, cardiac monitoring; 6 lelectrodes

12 lead ECG
Most views; 10 electrodes

ECG Lead Placment

Limb leads
4 leads placed on the extremities: left and right wrist; left and right ankle The lead connected to the right ankle is a neutral lead (black) Provides information on the hearts VERTICAL plane.

 Unipolar
Measure absolute electrical potential at one side

Bipolar
Register potential in 2 different leads

 Chest leads
V-leads Provides information about the hearts HORIZONTAL plane

Electrode Application
Clean and dry the skin Shave hair if present Replace electrode every 2 days if skin irritation occurs Mark position to ensure consistent lead placement

ECG Strip
ECG strip consists of:
Horizontal lines: seconds Vertical lines: voltage
Small square = 0.04 seconds/0.1 millivolts Large square = 0.20 seconds/0.5 millivolts