Health professionals and consumers use cardiology electrodes to help check the heart rate and rhythm of a patient or family member. The electrodes attach to the skin using an adhesive and connect to an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine.
If you find yourself needing to use an ECG machine, you may find the following tips on how to use and replace cardiology electrodes useful.
Prepare the Skin
The skin must be clean and dry before applying the electrodes. You may need to use an alcohol swab to ensure that the skin is free of oils that may keep the electrodes from adhering properly.
Apply the Electrodes
Most electrodes include an adhesive material with a backing film. Peel the backing off the electrode and place it on the skin. Press firmly to ensure a solid connection.
Connect the Electrodes
Connect the cardiac electrodes to the ECG machine. ECG machines have cables that extend from a port on the device. The other end of the cable attaches to the electrodes.
After connecting the electrodes, you can turn on the ECG machine and check the patient’s heart rate.
Replace the Electrodes
Cardiology electrodes are disposable items. You should replace the electrodes every 24 to 48 hours for continuous use. If the electrodes become loose or dirty, you may need to discard them earlier. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper disposal of electrodes.
To remove electrodes, gently peel them from the skin. Use an alcohol swab to clean the skin before applying a new electrode. Following these steps should help with the accuracy of the ECG readings.
