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PATIENT PREPARATION
Patient Hookup
Skin Preparation
Good skin preparation prior to electrode attachment is very important to ensure good signal quality when
recording patient data. Poor electrode-to-skin contact may cause artifact (noise) to be included in the
recording which can affect the analysis of the ECG data. Low-amplitude signals may also be the result of
poor electrode-to-skin contact.
1. Identify the (10) electrode sites on the torso (refer to the Positioning the Electrodes diagram).
2. Use a clipper or razor to remove any hair from the electrode sites.
3. Clean the skin with soap or alcohol to remove any body oils, lotion, or powder.
4. Use gauze to dry the skin and remove any alcohol residue if used.
5. Use an abrasive pad to gently abrade, but not break, the skin where the center of each electrode will
be applied. This removes dead skin cells that may impede heart signal conduction.
Positioning the Electrodes
6. Attach the electrodes to the lead wires on the patient cable before attaching electrodes to the patient.
7. Firmly attach each lead wire to an electrode.
8. Place the gel area of the electrode over the center of the prepared area using the positioning
illustrated on the next page; press the adhesive ring into place. Avoid pressing the center of the gel
area.
9. Place right arm (RA/R) and left arm (LA/L) leads close to the shoulder on the clavicle bone.
10. Place right leg (RL/N) and left leg (LL/F) leads on the lower portion of body, as close to the hip as
possible, on the iliac crest (original Mason-Likar position), or on the lowest rib on each side of the
chest (modified Mason-Likar position).
11. Ensure electrodes are securely attached to the skin. To test electrode contact, lightly tug the lead
wire to check adhesion. If the electrode moves freely, the site should be prepped again. If the
electrode does not move easily, a good connection has been obtained.
NOTE AND CAUTION: Proper skin preparation is very important. Poor ECG signal quality is
the main cause for incorrect beat and arrhythmia detection. RA and LA are susceptible to muscle
interference. RL and LL leads are susceptible to interference from clothing, a belt, and movement.
Choose the best locations for limb lead placement according to body type. Avoid muscular and
loose, flabby skin locations.
Summary of Contents for Hillrom H12+
Page 6: ...SERVICE AND SPARE PARTS 2...
Page 8: ...NOTICES 4...
Page 10: ...WARRANTY INFORMATION 6...
Page 18: ...GENERAL CARE 14...
Page 27: ...INTRODUCTION 23 H12 Recorder in Carrying Case...
Page 40: ...CONFIGURING THE RECORDER 36...
Page 46: ...MAINTENANCE 42...
Page 48: ...TROUBLESHOOTING 44...