-
Proper ECG Electrode application techniques can help reduce alarm fatigue1
Reducing some false ECG clinical alarms can be in your control. Before applying an electrode, remember to do the following: clip excessive hair, properly clean the site, abrade the skin* and properly apply the electrode. When removing an electrode, go low and slow.
How to apply 3M™ Red Dot™ Electrodes
-
1. Clean the skin
Application sites must be clean, dry, and free of any body lotions. Electrode sites should be cleaned with soap and water. Cleaning with isopropyl alcohol should be avoided or limited to situations in which electrode adhesion is an issue (excessively oily or lotion covered skin). If alcohol is used, allow it to dry prior to skin abrasion.
Application and Removal Instructions for 3M™ Red Dot™ Electrodes (PDF, 306.91 KB)
-
2. Prepare the skin
Excessive hair at the placement site should be removed by clipping. Abrade the skin* by making an "X" on the skin with the abrader. Use the abrader pad on the back of the electrode (blue strip or disc) or 3M™ Red Dot™ Trace Prep 2236.
Application and Removal Instructions for 3M™ Red Dot™ Electrodes (PDF, 306.91 KB)
-
3. Apply the 3M™ Red Dot™ Electrode
Avoid pressing on the stud when electrode is on the patient. To bypass this, connect the snap style leadwire to the electrode prior to placing on the patient. Firmly rub your finger around the outside of the front label to activate the pressure sensitive adhesive and improve electrode adhesion.
Application and Removal Instructions for 3M™ Red Dot™ Electrodes (PDF, 306.91 KB)
-
4. Remove the 3M™ Red Dot™ Electrode
In order to remove, loosen one side of the electrode. Grasping the full width of the electrode, slowly and gently pull it back over itself.
Electrodes should be removed in the direction of hair growth whenever possible. Keep the electrode close to the skin surface as you pull it back, and support the skin with a finger immediately adjacent to the adhesive being removed.
Application and Removal Instructions for 3M™ Red Dot™ Electrodes (PDF, 306.91 KB)
-
Refer to the product Instructions for Use for complete instructions including warnings, cautions, and other important information related to the use of 3M Red Dot electrodes. This application and removal guide is intended only as a quick reference.
Proper ECG Electrode Placement
-
3-Lead ECG Electrode Placement- RA: Second intercostal space lateral right side
- LA: Second intercostal space lateral left side
- LL: Lower left lateral chest or left leg
-
5-Lead ECG Electrode Placement- RA: Second intercostal space lateral right side
- LA: Second intercostal space lateral left side
- LL: Lower left lateral chest or left leg
- RL: Lower right lateral chest or right leg
- V2: Fourth intercostal space to the left of the sternum
-
12-Lead ECG Electrode Placement- RA: Second intercostal space lateral right side
- LA: Second intercostal space lateral left side
- LL: Lower left lateral chest or left leg
- RL: Lower right lateral chest or right leg
- V1: Fourth intercostal space to the right of the sternum
- V2: Fourth intercostal space to the left of the sternum
- V3: Between V2 and V4
- V4: Fifth intercostal space along the mid-clavicular line
- V5: Fifth intercostal space between V4 and V6
- V6: Fifth intercostal space along the mid-axillary line
-
References
1. Sendelbach S, Wahl S, Anthony A, Shotts P. Stop the Noise: A Quality Improvement Project to Decrease Electrocardiographic Nuisance Alarms. Critical Care Nurse Vol 35, No. 4, August 2015
*Skin abration is not recommended for pediatric patients
Resources
