What does a wandering baseline look like on an electrocardiogram?

A wandering baseline on an electrocardiogram is characterized by a slow, undulating appearance, which reflects variations in the baseline level of the ECG recording. This can occur due to several factors, such as patient movement, respiratory variations, or poor electrode contact. The baseline does not maintain a consistent position but instead fluctuates gently up and down, which can make it harder to accurately assess other features of the ECG.

In contrast, sharp peaks and valleys tend to indicate distinct deflections associated with heartbeats, while a flat line suggests a lack of electrical activity, which is not representative of a wandering baseline. Intermittent spikes might indicate artifact or interference but do not convey the continuous, smooth fluctuations characteristic of a wandering baseline. Therefore, the correct depiction of a wandering baseline is the gradual, undulating motion that can complicate the interpretation of the ECG readings.