What typically leads to an artifact in an ECG reading?

Artifacts in an ECG reading are often caused by external factors that interfere with the electrical signals being recorded. One of the most common causes of artifacts is the movement or motion of the patient. When a patient shifts position, breathes heavily, or experiences any form of muscular activity, it can create additional electrical interference that distorts the pure electrical signals generated by the heart. This results in changes in the ECG waveform, which may manifest as excessive noise, irregular spikes, or other distortions not representative of the actual cardiac activity.

In contrast, consistent electrode placement, correct alignment of leads, and stable heart rhythm contribute to a clearer and more reliable ECG tracing, minimizing the potential for artifact creation. Properly positioned electrodes are essential in accurately capturing the heart's electrical activity without introducing extraneous signals. Therefore, patient motion is a significant factor in the development of artifacts in ECG readings.