Before running an EKG, what is the final step to ensure tracing is clear?

The final step to ensure a clear EKG tracing involves double-checking the electrode attachment. Proper electrode placement is crucial because mispositioned electrodes can lead to inaccurate readings or artifacts in the tracing. Ensuring that electrodes are securely and correctly placed on the patient’s skin helps to optimize the electrical signals being recorded, which results in a clearer and more reliable EKG output. Without this attention to detail, even a well-calibrated machine or informed patient could yield subpar results.

Checking patient identification is important for safety and ensuring the right patient is undergoing the procedure, while explaining the procedure reassures and informs the patient. Calibrating the EKG machine is vital for accurate readings, but if the electrodes are not properly attached, the calibration won't matter as much. Hence, double-checking electrode attachment is the key step immediately before capturing the EKG.