Leads And Vector

Question 1

5 lead system (continuos bedside monitoring)

Answer 1

Uses 5 electrodes (RA, RL, LA, LL, C(V1-6))

Modern monitoring equipment shows 2 leads on the ECG and a rhythm strip.

Question 2

12 Lead system

Answer 2

12 different angles to view the heart (electrically) in time (usually 3 sec) with 10 leads
- standard limb leads (I, II, III)
- augmented limb leads (aVR, aVL, aVF)
- chest (precordial) leads (V1,V2,V3,V4,V5,V6)
Useful in diagnosing ECG changes for ischemia or infarction and locating these events to a specific area in the myocardium.

Question 3

What are the two types of electrodes used?

Answer 3

1) disk electrode - consists of an adhesive circle with conducting gel in the center.
2) tab electrodes - are smaller and have a conductive surface