ECG cable electrode clips.

[scbiomed]

When checking out ECG cables don't overlook the plastic clips which attach the patient leads to the electrodes. Damage is easy to see on the stress type clip which snaps onto the top of the stress electrode It is usually just mechanical. Problems with the resting type clips which attach to tab electrodes are more difficult to see. Because the metal teeth of these clips attach directly to the electrode any misalignment can cause the electrode gel to build up inside the clip. This takes the form of a gummy substance that will eventually cover the teeth causing the clip to no longer make contact with future electrodes. Pieces of foil and paper from the tab electrodes can also stick inside these clips with the same results. The short term cure is to hold the clips open, remove any foreign material and then clean them with alcohol. If the clips have had a lot of use you will probably notice the metal parts are corroded. It's time for a new set of clips. I also reccomend supplying a new set of clips whenever you replace an ECG cable. I've seen many cables needlessly replaced when the real problem was the clips.