Question

With regard to the ECG, what is artifact?

A) significant abnormality discovered by the paramedic
B) The complete absence of electrical activity on the ECG
C) Electrical interference that can make diagnosis difficult
D) Improper lead placement, resulting in misdiagnosis

Answer 1

Artifact in ECG refers to electrical interference that can create misleading patterns on the electrocardiogram, which complicates the interpretation of the heart's electrical activity.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of an electrocardiogram (ECG), artifact refers to electrical interference that can complicate the diagnosis by creating abnormal patterns on the ECG tracing that do not reflect the true heart activity. These interferences can be caused by various factors such as muscle tremors, electrical noise, or loose leads. For instance, if the leads are not properly attached to the patient's skin or if there is electrical equipment nearby, it may introduce signals that alter the ECG reading. This affects the heart wave patterns on the electrocardiogram, making it difficult to interpret the true cardiac function. Artifacts are significant as they can mimic or obscure genuine cardiac abnormalities, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. Hence, during an ECG, it is crucial to ensure accurate lead placement and minimize potential sources of interference to obtain a clear and useful recording for medical analysis.