Final answer:
An EKG tech should carefully place electrodes for an ECG, accommodating for differences in female anatomy, while maintaining patient privacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
When recording an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) on a female patient, an EKG tech should take care to place the surface electrodes correctly for accurate results. The ECG trace, derived from careful placement of electrodes, provides insights into normal and abnormal heart function.
Making it vital for an EKG tech to understand the standard protocol for electrode placement, which includes 10 electrodes for a 12-lead ECG. Protocols vary slightly for male and female patients, mainly to accommodate the differences in chest anatomy. For instance, if breast tissue impedes electrode placement.
The EKG tech should place the electrodes under the breast to ensure contact with the skin. The tech should also maintain privacy and dignity, offering a gown and only uncovering the area where the leads are placed. Continuous monitoring might involve the use of a Holter monitor.