Question

After performing an ECG, the medical assistant notices wandering baselines in the precordial leads. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

A. Replace electrodes on the limb leads.
B. Make sure that all electronics are off in the room.
C. Run the ECG again.
D. Re-evaluate chest leads.

Answer 1

The most appropriate next step for addressing wandering baselines in the precordial leads of an ECG is to re-evaluate the chest leads.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a medical assistant observes wandering baselines in the precordial leads after performing an electrocardiogram (ECG), the most appropriate next step is to re-evaluate the chest leads. Wandering baselines can be a result of poor lead contact with the skin, patient movement, or various other factors specifically related to the chest leads. Since the ECG uses 10 electrodes placed in standard locations on the patient's skin, with six electrodes on the chest and four on the limbs, ensuring that these chest electrodes are adequately attached and positioned is critical for obtaining an accurate reading.