Where is it recommended to place electrodes on a patient?

Placing electrodes close to bone is recommended because this positioning helps to ensure better electrical contact and signal quality. When electrodes are placed on or near bony structures, they can effectively capture the electrical activity of the heart while minimizing interference from surrounding muscle movements. Muscle activity can create noise on the ECG recording, leading to artifacts that may obscure the true cardiac signals. By anchoring the electrodes in regions near bone, practitioners can enhance the clarity and reliability of the ECG readings.

Alternative placements over thick muscles or bony prominences may introduce complications due to muscle contractions or irregular surfaces that can distort the ECG. Skin folds can also be problematic as they may trap moisture or lead to poor adhesion, compromising both signal quality and the longevity of the electrode's placement. Hence, the choice of placing electrodes close to bone optimizes the accuracy and effectiveness of the ECG.