What is the final step a medical assistant should take to ensure a clear EKG tracing?

Double-checking the electrodes' attachment is crucial in ensuring a clear EKG tracing. Proper electrode placement is essential because it directly impacts the quality of the electrical signals being captured from the heart. If the electrodes are not securely attached or are misplaced, it can lead to artifacts or a distorted tracing, making it difficult to interpret the EKG accurately.

In addition, ensuring that electrodes are firmly attached can help prevent issues related to movement or muscle contractions, which can also create noise in the tracing. This step serves as a final check after other preparations have been made, like skin cleaning or adjusting machine settings, to make sure that all potential sources of interference are minimized.