Electromagnetic interference with electrocardiogram recording of exercise test equipment

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is crucial for diagnosing cardiac conditions.
• Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can affect electronic medical devices.
• Understanding sources of EMI is important for accurate patient monitoring.

Observation:

• A patient undergoing ECG monitoring experienced a falsely elevated heart rate.
• The recorded heart rate appeared as pseudosinus tachycardia, approximately double the basal rate.
• This artifact occurred when a mobile phone was charging in the same electrical socket as the treadmill exercise device.

Findings:

• The pseudosinus tachycardia was directly caused by electromagnetic interference (EMI).
• The EMI originated from the interaction between the mobile phone and the treadmill.
• Disconnecting the mobile phone from the power source immediately normalized the ECG readings.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for common electronic devices to interfere with medical equipment.
• Clinicians should consider environmental factors and potential EMI sources when interpreting ECGs.
• Awareness of EMI risks is essential for ensuring patient safety and diagnostic accuracy in healthcare settings.