| Begin by removing any hair that may prevent the ECG electrode from sticking directly to the patient’s skin. The preferred technique is to use a set of clippers however a razor will work. Next remove excess skin oils with a 4x4 or gauze pad. Then, “rough up” the skin to remove any excess dead skin cells that make up the outermost layer of the epidermis. Some brands of ECG electrodes have a "sandpaper-like" circle on the electrode itself for this purpose. The 12-Lead ECG will be attempting to pick up 1:10,000th of a volt, so skin preparation is important and a necessity for every patient. The EMS provider must also prepare the skin on women. Even though hair may be absent, excess oils and skin must be removed from the area beneath the left breast.
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