User manual

7-1
Chapter 7
Troubleshooting
7 Troubleshooting
Your cardiograph is designed for reliable operation. If you have problems with an
ECG, there are several things you may check before calling for service. This chapter
tells you how to solve basic ECG problems.
6Checking ECG Technique
Many problems in taking an ECG may be related to electrode application.
• Review “Preparing the Patient” in Chapter 2, “Recording an ECG” to ensure the
electrodes are properly attached to the patient.
• Refer to “Checking Signal Quality” in Chapter 2, “Recording an ECG” for infor-
mation about ensuring a good recording by using the preview screen.
A dotted line, known as a “leads off” trace will appear on the display when there is
a poor connection between the electrode and the patient. Use the following table to
identify and correct the connection:
Table 7-1 Identification of Leads Off Connections
Symptom Check Electrode
All 12 leads show discontinuities or dashed lines RL or N (right leg) electrode or cable wire
All leads except I show discontinuities or dashed
lines
LL or F (left leg) electrode or cable wire
All leads except II show discontinuities or dashed
lines
LA or L (left arm) electrode or cable wire
All leads except III show discontinuities or dashed
lines
RA or R (right arm) electrode or cable wire
Any combination of chest (V) leads shows
discontinuities or dashed line
Indicated chest (V) electrode(s) or cable wire(s)