Page 182 - Critical Care Nursing Demystified

Chapter 4 CARE OF THE PATIENT WITH CRITICAL CARDIAC RHY THM DISTURBANCE NEEDS 167

Cable

RA LA

G

Cardiac monitor

Lead wires

Electrodes

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FIGURE 4–1 • A cardiac monitoring system.

a volt of electricity through a wire to the receiving unit (monitor). So it is
important that these have firm contact to the patient’s skin in order to do their
work. Also, the disc electrodes have a tendency to dry out from constant con-
tact with a patient’s warm body temperature, so periodically they need to be
changed with fresh electrodes to ensure a really good picture (rhythm) of the
patient’s heart.

NURSING ALERT

Proper placement of electrodes is important for a good electrical “picture of the
heart.” They should not be placed over boney areas, scar tissue, or hair. These interfere
with electrical conduction. If need be, wash the area with warm, soapy water and dry
thoroughly. Hair may need to be clipped for closer contact. If respirations interfere,
move electrodes closer together.