12 Lead ECG Best Practices

Below is a list of recommended best practices for you to follow, when you’re next taking a 12 lead ECG:

1) Ensure the patient is reclined in a comfortable resting position

Ensure the patient is reclined in a comfortable resting position. Ask them to lie still, remain quiet and breath normally whilst taking the ECG as any skeletal muscle activity will be picked up as interference.

2) Use A High-Quality ECG Electrode

Make sure you are using a high quality ECG electrode, such as the AMBU SUPAtab, which can help to reduce the common problems associated with poor electrode adhesion.

3) Ensure the Correct Electrode Placement

Ensure correct electrode placement by viewing our 12 Lead ECG placement guide as an easy reminder of where the electrodes should be positioned on the patient’s chest and limbs.

4) Record in A 4 x 3 Format

It is usually recommended to record the ECG in a 4 x 3 format with a rhythm strip along the bottom of the ECG trace. This is usually lead II.

5) Record Any Clinical Signs During the Procedure

If the patient has any clinical signs during the procedure, such as chest pain, then this should be recorded in the notes or on the ECG tracing itself.

6) Remove the Electrodes After Use

Ensure that the electrodes are removed from the patient’s skin once the ECG has been completed and dispose of them in the clinical waste. If you are not using an integrated device, then make sure that the ECG is correctly labelled with the patient’s details.

For more advice on the ECG visit our 12 Lead ECG page. Remember, if you experience any problems with any of your diagnostic or waiting room equipment then we have a dedicated support team which can provide help and advice about a range of our equipment.  Call our team on 01 8665727

We also have full service rental options available.

Sources:

https://www.heart.org/idc/groups/heart-public/@wcm/@mwa/documents/downloadable/ucm_467758.pdf

https://www.thh.nhs.uk/documents/_departments/undergraduates/year3/ecg.pdf