Artifacts, Signal Distortions, and Electrical Intergerence

What are artifacts?

alteration or interference on the EKG that is not related to cardiac electrical activity; appears as distorted lines or waves

Somatic tremor

irregular spikes in tracing related to muscle movement. Ex: shivering when cold or medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. Reduced by decreasing anxiety and providing warmth. For Parkinson have them lay hands plam-down under buttocks to reduce it.

Electrical Interference (AC interference) (60-cycle interference)

regular spikes in tracing. Due to poor grounding or external electricity interfering with tracing. Nearby electrical equipment such as lights, computers, and other items plugged into wall sockets can cause this. Ensure proper grounding by using three-prong plug, avoiding crossed lead wires, moving bed away from wall, turning off unnecessary devices

Wandering Baseline

results from movement associated with breathing or poor electrode connection. It wanders away from center of paper causing difficulty in tracing. Clean skin before attaching electrodes and have pt avoid creams and lotions

Interrupted Baseline

When obvious break in tracing. Usually related to a disconnected or broken lead wire. A flat horizontal line will print on the tracing. Regular cleaning, maintence, and inspection of the lead wires will alert the MA to potential lead wire concerns