Lead — ECG/EKG Terminology

Definition: A specific electrical "view" of the heart's activity, like looking at a building from different angles. Different leads are created by different combinations of electrodes.

Key Facts

• Different leads show different parts of the heart
• The same heartbeat looks different in different leads
• Lead II is most common for continuous monitoring
• Multiple leads together give a complete picture (12-lead ECG)

ECG Connection: When you switch leads on the monitor, you're changing the viewing angle—the heart's rhythm doesn't change, just how you see it.

Why It Matters: Knowing which lead shows what helps you request the right view for interpretation.