Final answer:
The position control on an EKG machine should be adjusted when the baseline is not centered on the graphing paper or screen. This could happen due to patient movement, electrode issues, or machine malfunctions. A proper baseline is crucial for diagnosing cardiac conditions accurately.
Step-by-step explanation:
The position control on an EKG machine is critical for ensuring the baseline of the EKG graph is properly aligned. You would need to adjust this control whenever the baseline drifts away from the center of the graphing paper or screen, which could be due to patient movement, electrode problems, or technical issues with the machine. A stable baseline is essential for accurate interpretation, as the EKG measures the electric potentials generated by the heart's depolarization and repolarization during the cardiac cycle.
When analyzing an EKG, one of the key elements to look for is the ST segment which should be at the baseline level. If the ST segment is elevated or depressed, it may indicate pathologies such as a myocardial infarction or hypoxia, making the baseline's position crucial for accurate diagnoses. Therefore, maintaining the correct baseline position is more than a matter of clear visualization; it's a component of effective cardiac evaluation and diagnosis.