ECG Quality and Troubleshooting 46
Troubleshooting ECGs
Indistinct P-waves and movement artifact
P-waves may be “washed out” by artifacts caused by panting, shaking, and vocalizing.
Feline ECG with indistinct P-waves caused by purring
Canine ECG with respiratory (panting) artifact
To reduce movement artifact:
• Move clips below the knees and elbows.
• Distract the patient by tapping gently on the nose or offering a treat out of a closed hand.
• Apply gentle pressure to the chest and/or legs.
• Reposition the patient (if patient is standing, place in right-lateral position, or the reverse).
• Record a chest lead to distinguish P-waves from movement artifacts.
Flat lines or indistinct complexes
Make sure clips have sufficient skin contact and alcohol saturation for conduction.
Flat lines and indistinct complexes
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