Taking A 12 Lead ECG
Taking A 12 Lead ECG
Taking A 12 Lead ECG
Acquires verbal consent with explanations of procedure The patient should ideally lie at between 30 & 45 degrees though exception can be given for those patients who cannot tolerate this position The patient is encouraged to lie still and breath as normally as possible
Applying electrodes Locations are described below Electrodes should be fully in contact with the skin. If there are gross problems (e.g sweating or hairy) appropriate measures should be taken Care must be taken to rule out interference (e.g. pressure mattresses)
ECG Machine
You must have received appropriate training on the medical device to use it Some machines require you to enter patient details Some machines also require you to enter an access code You must ensure that the following have been checked: The machine is plugged in or that the battery has been fully charged All leads are secured correctly, are clean and in good working order There is paper in the device Also ensure the following: Filter is used (to help rule out interference) Ensure that speed is set to 25mm/sec Ensure that calibration is set to 10mm/sec Press to acquire/record the ECG You must be able to troubleshoot/resolve problems with lead contact/interference Observe the ECG quality and decide if another recording is necessary Remove leads Consider whether or not to leave electrodes in place (a repeat ECG may be necessary) Ensure patient comfort/thanks patient Clean the leads with an approved solution
Tutor __________________________
Taking a 12 Lead ECG Student Notes You are expected to take a 12 lead ECG from this patient. Please demonstrate and explain exactly how you would do this Following this you will be asked to interpret the ECG you recorded
Taking a 12 Lead ECG Tutor Notes The student must be able to demonstrate practical skill in taking a 12 lead ECG The student must demonstrate good communication skills and awareness of safety Following or during the procedure please ask the following questions:
Please observe the ECG you recorded and explain what structured approach you would use for reading the ECG (See separate crib sheet)
Taking a 12 Lead ECG Resource checklist Volunteer 12 lead ECG machine with leads ECG paper ECG electrodes Cleaning solution