ECG's

• When should a 12-lead ECG be used?

  • non-traumatic chest pain
  • epigastric pain
  • collapses/fainting (near syncope)
  • metabolic shock
  • post-cardiac arrest
  • electrolyte imbalances
  • overdoses
  • altered LOC
  • high-risk patients
  • where it may add value
• Placement of leads?

  • V1 = 4th intercostal space, right side
  • V2 = 4th intercostal space, right side
  • V4 = 5th intercostal space, mid clavicular line
  • V6 = 5th intercostal space, mid-axillary line
  • V3 = placed between V2 and V4
  • V5 = placed between V4 and V6
• what position should the patient be in?

  supine or semi-recumbent
• what should you remove?

  metal necklaces, electrical accessories
• what does it mean to prepare the chest?


  may need to shave the chest or dry it
• where should you avoid putting electrodes?

  prominent bones + muscles