What is a lead in relation to EKGs?

In the context of EKGs, a lead refers to a device used to collect or conduct electrical currents generated by the heart. Specifically, leads are the wires or electrodes that are placed on the patient's body to monitor the heart’s electrical activity. Each lead provides a different perspective or view of the heart's electrical signals, which allows healthcare professionals to assess the heart's function, detect abnormalities, and analyze the rhythm.

Leads are essential in an electrocardiogram, as they translate the heart's electrical impulses into a readable graph, enabling diagnosis of conditions like arrhythmias, ischemia, or hypertrophy. Different combinations of leads provide comprehensive information about the heart's electrical state from various angles, enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of the assessment.