ECG Equipment and Maintenance Flashcards

What is the standard paper speed used for ECG recordings in the United States?

Answer: 25 mm/sec

The standard ECG paper speed in the US is 25 mm/sec, which allows accurate measurement of intervals and waveforms.

What voltage does each large square on ECG paper represent at standard calibration?

Answer: 1 mV

At standard calibration (10 mm/mV), each large square (10 small squares tall) represents 1 mV of voltage.

How often should ECG electrodes be replaced to ensure optimal signal quality?

Answer: Per patient use (single-use)

Disposable ECG electrodes are single-use and should be replaced for each patient to prevent cross-contamination and ensure good conductivity.

What is the function of the galvanometer in an ECG machine?

Answer: Measures and records voltage differences

The galvanometer detects and records small voltage differences between electrodes, converting electrical activity into a visual tracing.

Which filter setting on an ECG machine is used to reduce muscle artifact?

Answer: Low-pass filter

A low-pass filter cuts high-frequency signals such as muscle (EMG) artifact, producing a cleaner ECG tracing.

What does the calibration pulse at the beginning of an ECG strip verify?

Answer: 1 mV standardization mark

The calibration pulse (1 mV square wave, 10 mm tall) confirms the machine is set to standard sensitivity so tracings can be accurately interpreted.