Preparing for an electrocardiogram is a priority nursing intervention for which patient
Cardiac dysrhythmias associated with altered myocardial automaticity, conductivity or contractility can effect cardiac output. Reduced cardiac output increases the risk of ineffective tissue perfusion. Assess for signs of ineffective tissue perfusion by system:
Nursing Intervention for Ineffective Tissue Perfusion
Electrocardiography is the most commonly used test for evaluating cardiac status, graphically records
the electrical current (electrical potential) generated by the heart. This current radiates from the heart in all directions and, on reaching the skin, is measured by electrodes connected to an amplier and strip chart recorder. The standard resting ECG uses five electrodes to measure the electrical potential from 12 different leads; the standard limb leads (I,II,III), the augmented limb leads (aVf, aVL, and aVr), and the precordial, or chest, leads (V1 through V6). ECG
tracings normally consist of three identifiable waveforms: the P wave, the QRS complex, and the T wave. The P wave depicts atrial depolarization; the QRS complex, ventricular depolarization; and the T wave, ventricular repolarization. Computerized ECG machines use small electrode tabs that peel off a sheet and adhere to the patient’s skin. The entire ECG tracing is displayed on a screen so abnormalities can be corrected before printing; then it’s printed on one sheet of paper. Electrode tabs can remain on the patient’s chest, arms, and legs to provide continuous lead placement for serial ECG studies. Purpose of Electrocardiography (ECG)
Electrocardiography (ECG) Procedure Patient Preparation for Electrocardiography (ECG)
Implementation
Nursing Interventions
Interpretations Normal Results
Abnormal Results
Precautions
Interfering Factors
Complications
Daisy Jane Antipuesto RN MN Currently a Nursing Local Board Examination Reviewer. Subjects handled are Pediatric, Obstetric and Psychiatric Nursing. Previous work experiences include: Clinical instructor/lecturer, clinical coordinator (Level II), caregiver instructor/lecturer, NC2 examination reviewer and staff/clinic nurse. Areas of specialization: Emergency room, Orthopedic Ward and Delivery Room. Also an IELTS passer. What Do You Think?Tags: ecg interpretationecg testekg interpretationelectrocardiography procedure |