EKG and Cardiovascular Testing Flashcards
What is the purpose of preparing a patient for an EKG?
To reduce patient anxiety and ensure an accurate tracing.
What are the minimum identifiers used to confirm a patient’s identity?
- Full name
- Date of birth
What should patients undress from for an EKG?
From the waist up and have lower legs accessible for lead placement.
What items should patients remove before an EKG?
- Pantyhose
- Tights
- Socks
- Jewelry (bracelets, necklaces)
What position should patients be in for the EKG?
Supine position, lying flat on their back or semi-Fowler’s position if they cannot lie flat.
What substances should patients avoid applying to their skin before an EKG?
- Lotions
- Powders
- Oils
- Ointments
What type of gel is used with electrodes during an EKG?
Electrolyte gel.
What can poor-quality or expired electrodes or gel result in?
An artifact that interferes with producing a clean and accurate tracing.
What is the normal speed of EKG graph paper?
25 mm/second.
What does each small horizontal square on EKG paper represent?
0.04 seconds.
What are the universal lead wire colors for limb electrodes?
- White: right arm
- Black: left arm
- Red: left leg
- Green: right leg
What leads are bipolar and what do they record?
- Lead I: right and left arms
- Lead II: right arm and left leg
- Lead III: left arm and left leg
What does aVR lead assist with?
The right arm tracing using the left arm and left leg.
Where is V1 placed during chest lead placement?
Right side of the sternum at the fourth intercostal space.
Which lead is placed at the midclavicular line?
V4.
What is the purpose of self-calibration in EKG devices?
To ensure the system is working properly.
What does the gain setting refer to in EKG machines?
The amplitude or height of the EKG waves.
What should the dimensions of the calibration box measure in standard settings?
10 mm tall by 5 mm wide.
How are EKG results typically transmitted to providers?
Via electronic medical record or paper chart.
What advancements in technology facilitate the transmission of EKGs?
Digital technology allows rapid data collection and distribution.
What is telemetry in the context of EKG monitoring?
Constant monitoring of the patient for irregularities in a hospital setting.
What must be done with the EKG tracing after provider review?
Add it to the patient’s chart by scanning it into the EHR or placing it in the paper chart.
