User manual

Identifying ECG Problems
7-2
7Identifying ECG Problems
The following table shows symptoms and solutions to problems that can occur
when recording an ECG.
Table 7-2 ECG Problems and Solutions
Problem Likely Cause Possible Solution
Power line AC Interference Poor electrode contact. Dry or dirty electrodes.
Lead wires may be picking up interference from
poorly grounded equipment near the patient.
Patient cable is too close to the cardiograph or
other power cords.
Use new electrodes. Abrade skin. Reapply elec-
trodes.
Route lead wires along limbs and away from other
electrical equipment. Fix or move poorly grounded
equipment.
Move the cardiograph away from the patient. Oper-
ate on battery power only. Move other electrical
equipment away from patient. Unplug electric bed.
Wandering Baseline Patient movement.
Electrode movement. Poor electrode contact and
skin preparation.
Respiratory interference.
Reassure and relax the patient.
Be sure that the lead wires are not pulling on the
electrodes. Reapply electrodes. Configure the car-
diograph to enable filtering.
Move lead wires away from areas with the greatest
respiratory motion.
Tremor or Muscle Artifact Poor electrode placement. Poor electrode contact.
Patient is cold.
Tense, uncomfortable patient.
Tremors.
Clean the electrode sites. Reapply electrodes. Be
sure the limb electrodes are placed on flat, non-
muscular areas. Warm the patient.
Reassure and relax the patient. Configure the car-
diograph to enable filtering.
Attach the limb electrodes near the trunk. Config-
ure the cardiograph to enable filtering.