Which of the following areas should electrodes NOT be placed?

The placement of electrodes is crucial for obtaining accurate electrocardiogram (ECG) readings. When considering the anatomical factors that affect electrode placement, certain areas can lead to variability in the signal quality.

Electrodes should not be placed in skin folds because this can lead to inconsistent skin contact and movement artifacts, which may distort the ECG readings. Skin folds may trap air, create poor adhesion, and cause changes in skin impedance, leading to unreliable electrical signals. Proper contact is essential for the electrodes to effectively pick up the heart’s electrical activity, and skin folds might compromise that contact.

On the other hand, placing electrodes over soft tissue is generally acceptable, as it can provide the necessary contact with underlying structures without the issues associated with folds. Similarly, placing electrodes close to bone can be reasonable, though it may also introduce some noise depending on surrounding muscle movements. Placing electrodes near the heart is standard practice in ECG monitoring, particularly with leads designed to capture signals from that area. Thus, while other placements have their considerations, avoiding skin folds is essential for maintaining the integrity of the ECG signal.