Final answer:
In EKG procedures, traditional lubricants are not used; instead, adhesive pads with conductive gel ensure proper contact between electrodes and skin. Gels are used as lubricants in other procedures like ultrasonic imaging, to reduce skin friction and allow smooth movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question at hand pertains to what type of lubricant can be used when administering a 12-lead EKG (electrocardiogram). In the context of an EKG, which is a diagnostic tool that records the electric signals of the heart to reveal both normal and abnormal heart functions, lubricants are not typically used on the electrodes themselves. However, when considering other medical procedures such as ultrasonic imaging, a gel is used to facilitate movement of the transducer over the skin and reduce friction. This gel behaves as a lubricant by reducing the coefficient of friction, allowing for smoother movement and better signal transduction. It should be noted that for an EKG, electrodes are placed on specific locations on the chest and limbs to capture the electrical activity of the heart, and adhesive pads with conductive gel are typically used to ensure good contact between the electrode and the skin, not necessarily as a lubricant.