What is the best area to position electrodes?

Positioning electrodes on soft tissue is ideal due to the improved conductivity and contact quality between the skin and the electrodes. Soft tissue has a greater moisture content compared to bony areas or hair-covered regions, allowing for better electrical signals to be captured. This is crucial for obtaining accurate readings in ECG monitoring, as effective electrode placement ensures that the electrical activity of the heart is transmitted clearly and without interference.

Bony surfaces can lead to poor contact and inaccurate readings, while areas with significant hair can impede the electrode's ability to adhere properly and make good contact with the skin. Placing electrodes near major arteries is not a standard practice; rather, it’s important to ensure that the electrodes are situated where the electrical signals can be best read and are not obstructed or distorted by underlying structures. Thus, soft tissue provides the optimal conditions for effective electrode placement in ECG procedures.