What is a necessary step to prepare the skin for a 12-Lead ECG?

To ensure accurate readings from a 12-Lead ECG, it is essential to prepare the skin properly. One of the key preparation steps involves shaving excess hair and wiping away sweat or any debris from the skin. Hair can create a barrier that may interfere with the good contact necessary for the electrodes to effectively detect electrical activity of the heart. If sweat is present, it can also impede the adhesion of the electrodes, leading to poor signal quality. By removing hair and ensuring the skin is clean and dry, the electrodes can adhere better, which results in more reliable ECG readings.

Other methods, such as wetting the skin or applying products like gels or bandages, could hinder the effectiveness of the electrodes or do not address the primary need for clear skin contact. Thus, properly preparing the skin through shaving and cleansing is critical for optimal ECG performance.