EKG/ECG Lead Placement and Vocabulary

Flashcards covering EKG definitions, lead types (bipolar and augmented), and specific precordial lead electrode placement sites.

EKG / ECG

A diagnostic tool that measures the electrical impulse of the heart.

Standard Limb Leads

Also known as Bipolar leads, these include Lead I, Lead II, and Lead III.

Augmented Leads

Leads characterized by increased voltage, specifically AVR, AVL, and AVF.

AVR

Augmented Voltage Right arm.

AVL

Augmented Voltage Left arm.

AVF

Augmented Voltage Left foot.

Precordial Leads

Also known as Chest leads, consisting of V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, and V6.

Right Leg

The location for the electrode that serves as the ground wire.

Lead I

The bipolar lead recording electrical activity between the Right Arm and Left Arm.

Lead II

The bipolar lead recording electrical activity between the Right Arm and Left Leg.

Lead III

The bipolar lead recording electrical activity between the Left Arm and Left Leg.

AVR Electrical Impulse Flow

The flow of electrical impulse between LA and LL.

AVL Electrical Impulse Flow

The flow of electrical impulse between RA and LL.

AVF Electrical Impulse Flow

The flow of electrical impulse between RA and LA.

V1 Placement

Located at the fourth intercostal space on the right side of the sternum.

V2 Placement

Located at the fourth intercostal space on the left side of the sternum.

V3 Placement

Positioned mid-way between V2 and V4.

V4 Placement

Located at the midclavicular line in the 5th intercostal space (sometimes 6th).

V5 Placement

Located at the anterior axillary line, level with V4.

V6 Placement

Located at the mid-axillary line, level with V4 and V5.