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Identifying ECG Problems
Problem
Power line AC
Interference
Wandering Baseline
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The following table shows symptoms and solutions to problems that
can occur when recording an ECG.
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Cause
Poor electrode contact. Dry or dirty
electrodes.
Lead wires may be picking up
interference. One possibility is a poorly
grounded instrument near patient.
Patient cable is located too close to the
cardiograph's power cord or other
power cords.
Patient movement.
Electrode movement. Poor electrode
contact & skin preparation.
Respiratory interference.
Possible Solutions
Reapply electrodes. Abrade skin. Use
new electrodes.
Route electrode wires along the limbs
and away from any other electrical
equipment. Fix other equipment.
Unplug cardiograph from AC power
and operate on battery only.
Move cardiograph further away from
patient. Unplug cardiograph from AC
power and operate on battery only.
Move other instruments further away
from patient. Unplug electric bed.
Reassure and relax the patient.
Be sure that the lead wires are not
pulling on the electrodes. Reapply
electrodes.
Make sure the Filter light is on.
Move lead wires away from areas with
greatest respiratory motion.
Troubleshooting
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