EKG Week 1

Basic
Electrocardiography
• Lead Systems
• EKG Paper
• EKG Components & Waveforms
The Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
• Records electrical voltages generated by
depolarization of cardiac cells thru skin
electrodes connected by cables to an ECG
machine
• Provides information about conduction
disturbances, electrical effects of meds &
electrolytes, & ischemic damage & injury
• Does not provide information about contractility
of myocardium - that must be evaluated by
assessment of pulse & BP
ECG Electrodes & Lead Systems
• Disposable electrode patches
contain conductive gel that conduct skin
voltage thru lead cables to the monitor.
• An EKG lead is a record of current flow
between two electrodes (+ & -).
• Electrodes & lead wires are applied at
specific locations on the chest wall &/or
extremities.
3 Lead Pt.
Cable -
White,
Black, Red