Preparing Clients for an

ECG
Sherlyn Joy B. Bayona, RN, MN
DEFINITION

The ECG is a standardized non-invasive diagnostic tool used to

record the electrical activity of the heart. It consist of waves and
lines that represent the electrical activity during the cardiac cycle.
RATIONALE

1. To monitor a patient's 2. To evaluate the effects of 3. To evaluate pacemaker

disease or injury to the
heart rate/activity function
heart
RATIONALE

4. To obtain a baseline
recording before, during,
and after a medical
procedure
RATIONALE
5. To provide information about the following

Conduction disturbances Electrical effects of Presense of Ischemic

medications and
(Heart block) damage
electrolyes
(Hyperkalemia)
 EQUIPMENTS

12 Lead ECG machine with charged batteries Alcohol swab

Correct recording machine paper for the machine ECG leads or electrodes
EQUIPMENTS

KY jelly, electrode paste Drape

PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION

1. Identify the client and explain the procedure

2. Elicits and record client's age, sex, height, weight, blood

pressure, symptoms, and current medications; unusual position
of the client during the examination; and the presence of
thoracic deformities, amputation, respiratory distress, muscle
tremors or any existing diseases.
PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION

3. Prepare equipments and

articles used for ECG

4. Ask client if he/she ever had

an ECG before. Explain that
the procedure will take only
10-15 minutes and is painless.
PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION
5.Close the door and bedside curtains
6. Assist the client to assume a supine position.
7. Remove any metal object from the client
8. Drape as necessary
9. Perform hand hygiene
10. Cleanse and prepare the skin; wipe skin with alcohol
11. Apply electrode paste and attach leads.
ECG PLACEMENT AND COLOUR/CODING
STANDARDS USA/EUROPE
PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION
12. Turn on on lead selection switch to record all 12 leads.
13. Remove the leads and wipe electrode paste that may be remaining
14. Assist pt to a comfortable position
15. Thank the client
16. Able to perform the procedure efficiently and within 10-15 mintues
time frame
17. Place ECG on chart and note the time and condition of the client
EVALUATION AND DOCUMENTATION

1. Document time, test performed, and patient's response

2. Give health instruction if there's a need for follow up checkup

or treatment.