EKG AcquisitionQuestion 59 of 100
When performing a 12-lead EKG on a female patient with large breast tissue, where should the V4 and V5 electrodes be placed?
a.Under the breast, directly on the chest wall at the correct anatomic landmarks
b.On top of the breast tissue at approximately the right level
c.Above the breast to avoid touching it
d.On the back, opposite the usual positions
Explanation
Chest electrodes are placed beneath the breast on the chest wall at the true anatomic landmarks, because breast tissue between the electrode and the heart reduces voltage and distorts the tracing. Placing electrodes on top of or above the breast produces inaccurate amplitudes. Back placement is used only for special posterior leads. The patient's privacy is protected with draping throughout.
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