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The Perils and Pitfalls of ECG Recording. Jane Mackenzie Chris Monaco. What is an ECG and Why do we record it?. An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart muscle ECG recordings are used to- Identify normal and abnormal heart rhythms To diagnose life threatening conditions
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The Perils and Pitfalls of ECG Recording Jane Mackenzie Chris Monaco
What is an ECG and Why do we record it? • An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart muscle ECG recordings are used to- • Identify normal and abnormal heart rhythms • To diagnose life threatening conditions • To detect heart attacks • To determine the next course of action or treatment for the patient.
How Do we Record it? To record an ECG you need • An ECG machine and cables • A comfortable couch • A warm environment • Electrodes • Privacy • A TRAINED competent operator • Oh............ and a patient !!!
Perils and Pitfalls • You could put electrodes in the wrong place YOU CAN MISS A HEART ATTACK • You use the wrong machine settings You can hide or create abnormal waveforms and therefore the patient could get the Wrong Diagnosis • The recording is of poor quality It cannot be interpreted
And NOT like this ! Muscle Electrical Wanderingbaseline
How to record an ECG • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrjAYCi1duI
Patient Care • Patient is informed • Environment is safe • Relaxed and comfortable • Identified ( 3 points) and consented • Lie patient on couch/ bed • Semi supine position as per guidance
Follow the Guidelines • Place electrodes on limbs • In correct position • Trained operator is available • Feel and count the rib spaces • Always be accurate • Leeway – there isn’t any ! • Learn how to record an artefact free ECG • Select the correct machine settings
ECG Training at Bradford PCTC • Block One – Practical ECG recording • Block Two– Interpret a Normal ECG • Block Three - Recognise Abnormal Rhythms • Block Four - Acute Coronary Syndrome ( identify heart attacks on the ECG)