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6ECG, Arrhythmia, and ST
Monitoring
The electrocardiogram (ECG) measures the electrical activity of the heart and displays it on the
monitor as a waveform and a numeric. This section also tells you about arrhythmia monitoring (see
page 107) and ST monitoring (see page 117).

Skin Preparation for Electrode Placement

Good electrode-to-skin contact is important for a good ECG signal, as the skin is a poor conductor of
electricity.
1Select sites with intact skin, without impairment of any kind.
2Clip or shave hair from sites as necessary.
3Wash sites thoroughly with soap and water, leaving no soap residue.
We do not recommend using ether or pure alcohol, because this dries the skin and increases the
resistance.
4Dry skin thoroughly.
5Gently abrade the skin using ECG skin preparation paper to remove dead skin cells to improve the
conductivity of the electrode site.

Connecting ECG Cables

1Attach the clips or snaps to the electrodes before placing them. If you are not using pre-gelled
electrodes, apply electrode gel to the electrodes before placement.
2Place the electrodes on the patient according to the lead placement you have chosen.
3Attach the electrode cable to the patient cable.
4Plug the patient cable into the white ECG
connector on the measurement server. An ECG
waveform and numeric appears on the monitor
display.
ECG Connector