EKG Ch 7

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to EKG adaptations, troubleshooting, and precautions as discussed in the lecture notes.

Artifact

Any interference with the recording of the EKG tracing.

Somatic Tremor Artifact

A fine, choppy distortion on the EKG tracing caused by patient movement such as tremors.

Wandering Baseline Artifact

A distortion where the normally flat baseline moves up and down across the tracing.

Standard Precautions

Infection prevention methods applied to all patients at all times.

Transmission-Based Precautions

Specific precautions taken for patients with known or suspected infectious diseases.

Droplet Precautions

Precautions requiring the use of a mask when in close contact with infected patients.

Airborne Precautions

Precautions involving the use of N95 respirators when entering a negative pressure room.

Electrical Interference

Artifact caused by other electronic devices affecting the EKG signal.

Broken Recording (Interrupted Baseline)

Occurs when the EKG machine cannot find a signal, causing the stylus to move side to side.

Dextrocardia

A rare heart condition where the heart points to the right side of the chest.

Contact Precautions

Precautions requiring gloves, gown, and masks when caring for patients with communicable diseases.

EKG Electrode Placement

The positioning of electrodes on a patient's body for accurate EKG readings.

Pediatric EKG Adaptations

Adjustments in electrode placement and positioning for EKG tests on children.

Negative Pressure Room

A special room designed to prevent pathogens from spreading to other areas.

N95 Respirator

A high-efficiency mask required for healthcare workers in specific infectious situations.

Patient Positioning

The placement or adjustment of a patient’s body for EKG testing.

Lead Wires

Wires connecting the EKG machine to electrodes on the patient's body.

Electrode Gel

A conductive substance used to improve contact between skin and electrodes.

Hypoallergenic Tape

Non-irritating tape used for securing electrodes, especially on sensitive skin.

Shivering

Involuntary muscle contractions that can lead to somatic tremor artifact.

Scar Tissue

Tissue formed after an injury or surgery that should not be used for electrode placement.

Multi-channel EKG Machine

An advanced EKG machine capable of diagnosing multiple leads simultaneously.

Basic Troubleshooting

Initial steps to identify and resolve common issues with EKG machines.

Electrode Maintenance

Proper storage and handling of electrodes to ensure their effectiveness.

Communicable Illness Detection

Recognizing symptoms of transmission-based diseases during patient care.

Semi-Fowler's Position

A sitting position at a 45-degree angle aiding breathing comfort.

Baseline

The straight horizontal line in an EKG tracing representing no electrical activity.

Patient Anxiety

Emotional distress that may affect a patient's EKG results due to movement.

Empathy in Healthcare

The act of understanding and caring for a patient’s emotional state.

Compact EKG Machine

A portable EKG machine designed for easy transport and use.

Electrodes for Fast Response

Standard electrodes generally used for quick and effective EKG placements.

Documentation

Recording changes and adaptations made during the EKG process for future reference.

Electrode Placement for Amputation

Adjusting electrodes to ensure proper EKG readout in amputee patients.

Body Hair Removal Techniques

Methods to ensure good skin contact by removing hair at electrode sites.

Patient Care Equipment

All tools and devices used by healthcare professionals to provide patient care.

Posture Adjustments for Testing

Changes to how patients are situated for their comfort and accurate EKG results.

Essential EKG Terminology

Key terms and concepts essential for understanding EKG processes.

Out of Service Protocols

Procedures in place for malfunctioning medical equipment.

ECG Signal Acquisition

The process of collecting electrical signals from the heart for analysis.

Articulating Patient Concerns

Ability to express and address a patient's worries regarding the procedure.