Atraumatic Electrodes for Cardiac Monitoring

Abstract

An atraumatic electrode specifically designed for cardiac monitoring on neonates is described. The electrode is a single use, throw-away device consisting of a polyethylene band 4 inches long, 3/4 inch wide and 1.5 mil thick, to which is cemented a folded paper electrode and the insulator of a lead wire assembly. It is applied to the limb in bracelet fashion. A small quantity of saline or water introduced under the plastic film activates the electrode. Sets of 3, sometimes 4 electrodes were tested on 26 babies in a pilot study. Good quality signals were routinely obtained. An average time between application of saline of over 10 hours was found. The main advantages of the electrode are: (1) ease of application, (2) infrequent replacement, and (3) reliable almost noise-free signal collection.