User's Manual

ECG AND SP O
2
TELEMETRY TRANSMITTER (96281) OPERATIONS MANUAL 3-2
To Set Up ECG Monitoring
When attaching leadwires to the telemetry transmitter, use the color coding and/or leadwire identifier
code to ensure that the correct connections are made.
ECG electrodes have a column of conductive gel that is surrounded by an adhesive surface. The
condition of the electrode’s gel column directly affects the quality of the ECG signal. For example, more
noise appears on the ECG signal if gel is displaced (or air is trapped) when you apply an electrode to
the patient. Key points to remember include:
• Before using electrodes, verify that they have not expired and that the conductive gel is not
dry. Replace the electrodes if necessary.
• Always attach the electrode to its leadwire before applying the electrode to the patient (refer to
Figure 3-1). Do not apply pressure directly over the electrode’s gel column.
• Press firmly around the outer edge of the electrode’s adhesive surface to ensure that the
electrode is securely attached to the patient.
• To minimize muscle artifact, place electrodes over flat, non-muscular areas of the body (refer
to
Figure 3-2). This is important for telemetry patients who are usually ambulatory.
• After electrodes and leadwires are attached, add a stress loop (a loop of leadwire taped close
to its electrode) to minimize stress or pulling on the electrode itself. This will improve ECG
signal quality, particularly for ambulatory patients.
Note:
Spacelabs Healthcare recommends that electrodes be replaced after 24 to 48 hours of use.
To prepare the patient
• Wash the area with soap and water.
• If necessary, shave the area where you
plan to position the electrodes.
• Clean the skin with alcohol.
• Dry the skin thoroughly.
• Abrade the skin.
To apply ECG electrodes
• Attach an electrode to a leadwire.
• Apply the electrode to the patient’s skin.
Figure 3-1: Electrode application
1 Attach the electrode to the leadwire.
2 Apply the electrode to the skin.
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D R A F T
22 June 2012