In what position should a patient be placed when obtaining a 12-lead ECG?

The appropriate position for a patient when obtaining a 12-lead ECG is supine. This position ensures that the patient's heart is at the same level as the electrodes being placed, minimizing any movement or tension in the chest area which could affect the accuracy of the readings. Being supine allows for better anatomical placement of the leads on the chest wall, ensuring a clearer and more accurate representation of the cardiac electrical activity.

When the patient is supine, there is also less chance of external influences such as gravity affecting the position of the leads, which could happen if the patient were seated or standing. Additionally, this position is generally more comfortable for the patient, facilitating better cooperation during the procedure.

In contrast, being seated could introduce variability in lead placement and could cause the patient to inadvertently shift or move, impacting the ECG quality. A standing position poses similar issues, as the heart's electrical potentials may not be accurately captured. The side-lying position, while it may be suitable for certain clinical scenarios, is generally not recommended for 12-lead ECGs due to potential distortion of the ECG signal resulting from changes in lead placement.