Troubleshooting, Lead-quality problems, Artifact” message on the screen – Welch Allyn CP50 - Quick Reference Guide User Manual
Page 13: Wandering baseline
Troubleshooting
Lead-quality problems
“Artifact” message on the screen
Artifact is signal distortion that makes it difficult to accurately discern the waveform
morphology.
Causes
•
The patient was moving.
•
The patient was shivering.
•
There is electrical interference.
Actions
See actions for wandering baseline, muscle tremor, and AC interference.
Wandering baseline
Wandering baseline is an upward and downward fluctuation of the waveforms.
Causes
•
Electrodes are dirty, corroded, loose, or positioned on bony areas.
•
The electrode gel is insufficient or dried.
•
The patient has oily skin or used body lotions.
•
Rising and falling of chest during rapid or apprehensive breathing.
Actions
•
Clean the patient’s skin with alcohol or acetone.
•
Reposition or replace the electrodes.
•
Verify that the patient is comfortable, warm, and relaxed.
•
If wandering baseline persists, turn the baseline filter on.
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