In a 12-Lead transmission, when should you call the hospital?

In the context of 12-lead ECG transmission, calling the hospital after obtaining and selecting the hospital is crucial for effective patient care. This timing ensures that as soon as the critical data is gathered, the receiving hospital can prepare for the patient’s arrival.

When the transmission is initiated while you are still preparing the skin or placing leads, it can lead to delays in treatment because the hospital won't have the necessary information to activate their protocols efficiently. By waiting until after the leads are applied but before the printout is received, you can ensure that the hospital can mobilize resources and inform the appropriate staff, which is particularly important in time-sensitive situations like those involving potential acute coronary syndromes.

This approach enhances communication and allows for early intervention once the data is actually in hand, ultimately improving patient outcomes.