Perform routine Electrocardiograph (ECG) Procedures
Overview
This standard covers performance of recording Electrocardiograph (ECG) at rest and ambulatory Electrocardiograph (ECG) procedures.
It includes connection and disconnection of electrodes and acquisition of data ready for analysis.
The procedures may be performed in a number of care settings such as outpatient departments, ward areas and GP practices.
Users of this standard will need to communicate effectively to meet individuals' needs and wishes and work in line with health and safety legislation, policy and practices.
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
P1. identify and agree the roles and responsibilities of yourself and/or others in performing routine Electrocardiograph (ECG) Procedures
P2. provide support to the individual and carers and ensure health and safety measures are implemented at all times
P3. ensure infection prevention and control methods and personal protective equipment are used
P4. confirm the individual’s identity, reason for referral and obtain their valid consent before proceeding
P5. identify any additional needs which may affect performance of the test or influence results
P6. ensure the comfort, safety, security and general condition of the individual and yourself throughout the procedure
P7. obtain assistance and advice where alternative arrangements are required
P8. confirm that the individual understands the need for recording signs and symptoms, throughout an electrocardiograph
P9. establish suitability of characteristics and operational parameters of equipment
P10. label documents and recording devices with organisational requirements
P11. inform and instruct the individual on the procedure and requirements for their compliance
P12. encourage the individual to relax and remain immobile during procedure where the electrocardiograph is performed at rest
P13. prepare sites and position electrodes to optimise results, taking account of additional needs identified
P14. test and run monitoring device and check quality of output
P15. inform the individual of next action
P16. complete all relevant documentation required for performing routine Electrocardiograph (ECG) Procedures
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
K1. how to access and interpret all relevant work instructions, legislation, guidelines, policies, procedures and protocols needed to perform routine Electrocardiograph (ECG) Procedures
K2. the scope and limitations of your own competence, responsibilities and accountability as it applies to your job role
K3. specific procedures for reporting issues which are beyond your competence, responsibilities and accountability
K4. the principles, practice and procedures associated with informed consent
K5. the needs of individuals and carers including issues relating to dignity, confidentiality, and privacy
K6. the importance of applying standard infection control precautions to the performing of routine electrocardiographs of competence and the potential consequences of poor practice
K7. any additional needs the individual may have which may affect performance or quality of Electrocardiograph
K8. the importance of ensuring immobility for electrocardiograph at rest
K9. the clinical conditions and reasons for referral for electrocardiograph examinations
K10. the effect of postural and respiratory changes on electrocardiograph results
K11. the structure and function of the heart
K12. the conduction system of the heart
K13. the normal electrocardiograph
K14. the type and common characteristics of recording devices used in electrocardiograph procedures and how to set up and test
K15. the relevant equipment quality assurance procedures
K16. the purpose of electrocardiograph procedures
K17. the correct positioning of electrodes for at rest and ambulatory electrocardiograph procedures and why this is important
K18. potential electrical interference and sources of artefact and how to recognise them
K19. how to check that the electrocardiograph trace is clear to enable accurate reading and analysis
K20. the importance of accurately recording the individual's signs/symptoms during ambulatory electrocardiograph procedures
K21. how to complete and safely store all relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements