Final answer:
If the ECG shows irregular, jagged peaks known as somatic tremor, the medical assistant should check electrodes contact, nearby electric appliances, help the patient relax, and ensure cable connections are secure.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an ECG recording appears as a series of irregular, jagged peaks, which is often referred to as somatic tremor, the medical assistant should take several steps to resolve this issue. The irregularities may be due to extraneous electrical interference or issues with the electrode contacts. First, the assistant should make sure that all electrodes are in proper contact with the patient's skin. If this is confirmed and the recording is still irregular, checking for nearby electrical appliances that could be interfering with the signal is a good next step.
Additionally, ensuring the patient is relaxed and warm can help reduce muscle tremors that could be contributing to the ECG abnormalities. Lastly, verifying that the cable connections to the electrodes are secure and functioning correctly is essential for an accurate ECG reading.