Question

1) While completing Carl’s ECG, you notice an intermittent signal artifact. What are two ways you can fix the issue?

2)You will need to prepare and complete an ECG for Carl. Think about how we prepared and ran ECGs in the lab. What instructions will you need to provide to Carl to prepare him for the ECG. (Hint: think about any paperwork, positioning, look back at the procedure)

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Answer 1

1- Electrocardiographic artifacts are defined as electrocardiographic alterations, not related to cardiac electrical activity. As a result of artifacts, the components of the electrocardiogram (ECG) such as the baseline and waves can be distorted. Motion artifacts are due to shaking with rhythmic movement.

Interventions to Reduce ECG Artifact

1. removal of part of the stratum corneum to allow the electrical signals to travel to the electrode.
2. scratching the stratum granulosum to reduce motion potentials generated in this layer.
3. defatting the skin to permit the adhesive base on the electrode to grip the skin.

Removing motion artifacts from an electrocardiogram (ECG) is one of the important issues to be considered during real-time heart rate measurements in telemetric health care. However, motion artifacts are part of the transient baseline change caused by the electrode motions that are the results of a subject‟s movement.

2- Prepare the patient: Make sure the temperature in the test room is comfortable for the patient. If the room is too cold, the patient may shiver causing artifact or muscle tremors on the ECG. Identify the electrode sites and thoroughly shave all body hair from the electrode sites, refer to the diagram below.

How should I prepare for an electrocardiogram?

1. Avoid oily or greasy skin creams and lotions the day of the test because they can keep the electrodes from making contact with your skin.
2. Avoid full-length hosiery, because electrodes need to be placed directly on your legs.
3. Wear a shirt that you can remove easily to place the leads on your chest.

Avoid drinking cold water or exercising before your EKG. Drinking cold water can cause changes in the electrical patterns that the test records. Exercise can increase your heart rate and affect the test results.