17: Troubleshooting Symptoms
184
Table 50 ECG Problems
Symptom Possible Cause Potential Solution
QRS beeper inaudible or
beeps do not occur with
each QRS complex.
The QRS volume is
configured to
or the
setting is too low.
Configure the QRS beeper volume.
The QRS volume was turned
off or set too low through
the Volume menu.
Adjust the volume through the Volume menu.
The amplitude of the QRS
complex is too small to
detect.
Select a different lead.
Poor ECG signal quality
(noisy trace, wandering
baselines, etc.) from signal
acquired through
monitoring electrodes.
The monitoring electrodes
are not making proper
contact with the patient.
Check that the monitoring electrodes are properly
applied. If necessary, prepare the patient’s skin and
apply new electrodes.
The monitoring electrodes
are out of date or dried out.
Check the date code on the electrodes. Do not open the
electrode package until immediately prior to use.
Radio frequency interference
(RFI) is causing artifact.
Relocate or turn off equipment that may be causing
RFI. Try repositioning the cables/leads.
The ECG cable may be
faulty.
Run an Operational Check with the ECG cable and
check Leads ECG results.
If the test fails, replace the ECG leadset and trunk cable.
Poor ECG signal quality
(noisy trace, wandering
baselines, etc.) from signal
acquired through pads.
The pads are not making
proper contact with the
patient.
Ensure proper skin preparation and correct application.
If necessary, apply new pads. Paddles are only for a
quick look, not long term monitoring.
The pads are outdated or
dried out.
Check the date code on the pads. Do not open the pads
package until immediately prior to use.
Radio Frequency
Interference (RFI) is causing
artifact.
Relocate or turn off equipment that may be causing
RFI. Try repositioning the Therapy cable.
The Therapy cable may be
faulty.
Run an Operational Check with the Therapy cable and
check pads ECG results.
If the test fails, replace the Therapy cable.
When monitoring with
pads, there is a dashed line
on the display instead of an
ECG.
ECG data is not being
acquired.
Confirm that the desired lead is selected.
Check the pads, paddles or ECG cable connection.
Check that the pads, paddles, or monitoring electrodes
are properly applied.
NOTE: Viewing a patient’s ECG through paddles is not recommended for long-term monitoring. See
“Quick Look” on page 81.
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