EKG in prone position

Q: In patients who are placed in prone position, electrocardiographic (EKG) leads can be placed on the back?

A) True
B) False


Answer:  A

Not only EKG leads can be safely placed and interpreted from the back of the patient but successful defibrillation can also be done.

It would be appropriate to notify the reading cardiologist if leads are placed on the back.

#cardiology
#procedure



References:

Russi CS, Myers LA, Kolb LJ, Steever K, Nestler DM, Bjerke MC, White RD, Ting HH. - Prehospital diagnosis of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction using an "all-posterior" 12-lead electrocardiogram.- prehosp Emerg Care. 2011 Jul-Sep;15(3):410-3. 

C. C. Miranda, M. C. Newton; Successful defibrillation in the prone position, BJA: British Journal of Anaesthesia, Volume 87, Issue 6, 1 December 2001, Pages 937–938