The correct option is a.
A Holter monitor uses 5 leads: 3 on the chest (right, left, lower left) and 2 on limbs (right leg, left leg).
A Holter monitor typically uses a specific number of leads to monitor a patient's heart activity. The most common type of Holter monitor uses 5 leads, not to be confused with the 12-lead ECG used for more detailed cardiac assessments.
Here's a step-by-step explanation of how the leads are placed for a 5-lead Holter monitor:
1. Preparation: Before applying the Holter monitor, the patient's chest area should be clean and dry to ensure good electrode contact.
2. Electrode Placement:
a. Chest Leads: Three electrodes are placed on the patient's chest:
- The first electrode is placed on the right side of the chest, just below the collarbone.
- The second electrode is placed on the left side of the chest, just below the collarbone.
- The third electrode is placed on the left lower chest area, near the ribcage.
b. Limbs Leads: Two electrodes are placed on the patient's limbs:
- One electrode is placed on the right leg.
- The other electrode is placed on the left leg.
3. Lead Connections: The leads from these electrodes are then connected to the Holter monitor device. The Holter monitor continuously records the patient's heart activity over a 24 to 48-hour period.
So, the answer is 5 leads.