Top Tip 16 - ECG pads revisited

In an earlier tip we investigated placement of ECG pads for high quality ECG traces. In this video tip we briefly review placement of ECG pads for continual in-clinic monitoring.

When we choose to attach an ECG for continual monitoring of a patient, we will always use fastened ECG pads in preference to alligator clips. Although clips are easy to attach, they can pinch at skin and easily fall off a conscious patient. For any active or non-compliant patient, clips must be regularly re-attached. This means patchy ECG traces and extra work.

ECG pads can be easily attached just behind the paws of most compliant animals. We use pads with an eccentric metal connector. This allows us to attach and detach ECG leads far more easily than clips with a central connector. We can also place tape over the top of the pad, keeping it in place.

With patients who have continual ECG monitoring we typically place 3 pads, one on each of the front limbs and one on a hind limb.

We have found that obtaining this type of ECG pad can be challenging. If you are interested in using this type of pad and cannot source them we are most happy to help. If you would like to purchase a pack of 25 pads, we are happy to provide these. Alternatively, if you would like to purchase a larger quantity, we are happy to provide our supplier’s details (the minimum order is 1000 pads from the supplier we use).

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