Question

How to perform an EKG

Answer 1

EKG means electrocardiogram which is a non invasive procedure. ECG illustrates the electrical activity of the heart by recording information through 12 different perspectives., and any deviations in the ECG indicates that there could be arrhythmias or myocardial infarction or any bundle branch blocks.

The measurement of electrical activity is possible only with appropriate leads placement in contact with the individual's body surface.Proper electrode placement is very crucial.

In a 12-lead ECG, there are 12 leads calculated using 10 electrodes, out of which 6 are chest electrodes and 4 are limb electrodes. The placement of the leads are as follows;

Placement of Chest Electrodes:

• V1 - Fourth intercostal space on the right sternum
• V2 - Fourth intercostal space at the left sternum
• V3 - Midway between placement of V2 and V4
• V4 - Fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line
• V5 - Anterior axillary line on the same horizontal level as V4
• V6 - Mid-axillary line on the same horizontal level as V4 and V5

Placement of Limb Electrodes:

• RA (Right Arm) - Anywhere between the right shoulder and right elbow
• RL (Right Leg) - Anywhere below the right torso and above the right ankle
• LA(Left Arm) - Anywhere between the left shoulder and the left elbow
• LL (Left Leg) - Anywhere below the left torso and above the left ankle

How to perform EKG:

• Keep the articles ready for the procedure
• Check the working condition of the ECG machine
• Before procedure, all electronic devices shall be removed from the patient , this helps to avoid artifacts(interference)
• Skin should be dry, hairless, and oil-free. Shaving hair is necessary only when the electrodes are not been able to fix over the skin because of the chest hairs
• Place patient in supine or Semi-Fowler's position.
• Ask the patient to lie flat on the surface with arms lying flat on the side, ask the patient to relax the shoulders and keep the legs uncrossed.
• Adequate conduction is necessary for appropriate reading, use of conduction jelly for fixing