Care and Cleaning of 3- and 5-lead ECG Cables and Leadwires
Preventative Maintenance
6 - 10
6.8
Care and Cleaning of 3- and 5-lead ECG Cables and
Leadwires
Recommended cleaning method of ECG cables and leadwires is a cloth wipe using ordinary
alcohol-free hand soap or USP green soap tincture. When disinfection is required, a cloth
wipe using disinfectants such as isopropyl alcohol, chlorine bleach in water (1:10 mixture) or
2% Glutaraldehyde solution (i.e., Cidex) is recommended. After cleaning, the ECG cables
and leadwires should be wiped with water using a clean damp cloth, and then dried with a
clean dry cloth.
CAUTION:
To avoid permanent damage, do not expose metal
components (pins, sockets, snaps) to disinfectants, soaps or
chemicals.
NOTE:
ECG cables and leadwires must never be immersed, soaked
in any fluids, and they should not be cleaned with harsh
chemicals such as acetone or non-diluted bleach.
NOTE:
Do not autoclave, radiation or steam sterilize ECG cables or
leadwires.
NOTE:
Extended exposure to Ethylene Oxide gas may shorten life
of the ECG cables and leadwires, leading to poor signal
quality.
