Final answer:
The patient risks electrocution during an ECG if the machine is not properly grounded. Grounding provides a safe path for excess current, protecting patients from electrical hazards.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient may be placed at risk of electrocution during an ECG if the machine is not grounded. The grounding of medical equipment is crucial to ensure that in the event of an electrical fault, the current has a safe path to the earth rather than passing through the patient. Our bodies are good conductors of electricity due to the high water content, making the risk of electrocution higher if proper grounding is not in place. The term 'ground' refers to a connection to the earth, which acts as a sink for excess electrons. When there is a direct path to the ground, and if the body becomes part of the electrical circuit, there could be a potentially fatal flow of current through the heart or other vital organs.
Safety practices include using insulated tools and shoes to reduce the risk of forming a conductive path, especially in a medical setting. A health professional should always ensure that ECG machines and other medical equipment are properly grounded to prevent electrical accidents and ensure patient safety.