Question

An EKG technician notes a standard 12-lead EKG tracing shows an interrupted baseline. The technician knows that this artifact is most likely caused by which of the following?

a) Electrode gel drying out
b) Loose electrode connections
c) Electrical interference
d) Patient's movement during the test

Answer 1

Loose electrode connections are the most likely cause of an interrupted baseline on a 12-lead ECG tracing.

Step-by-step explanation:

An interrupted baseline on a standard 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) tracing is most likely caused by loose electrode connections. An ECG is a detailed tool for diagnosing heart function by recording the electrical activity of the heart using electrodes placed on the skin. Artifacts such as an interrupted baseline can occur due to issues with the electrodes, such as drying out of the electrode gel, electrical interference, or the patient's movement; however, loose connections are the most probable cause of this specific artifact. Improperly connected electrodes can result in a break in the tracing line, which is interpreted as an interrupted baseline on the ECG.