Which term describes electrical interference on an ECG that appears as small, uniform spikes?

Which term describes electrical interference on an ECG that appears as small, uniform spikes?

• A. Artifact
• B. Baseline
• C. Amplifier
• D. AC interference

Answer: (D)

AC interference is the regular, periodic noise that comes from mains electricity and nearby electrical equipment. On an ECG, this shows up as small, uniform spikes or a consistent sine-wave overlay across the tracing. This pattern is different from other disturbances because it has a steady frequency tied to the power line (50 or 60 Hz) and a predictable, repeating appearance. Why this fits: the description of small, uniform spikes matches line noise caused by electrical sources, which contaminates the ECG signal in a regular way. To reduce it, check grounding, use shielded leads, keep leads away from electrical devices, and, if possible, employ a notch filter at the power-line frequency. Additional notes: artifact is more irregular and variable, often due to movement or poor electrode contact. Baseline refers to shifts in the overall vertical position of the tracing, not a uniform spike pattern. An amplifier is the equipment that enhances the signal, not a type of interference.

AC interference is the regular, periodic noise that comes from mains electricity and nearby electrical equipment. On an ECG, this shows up as small, uniform spikes or a consistent sine-wave overlay across the tracing. This pattern is different from other disturbances because it has a steady frequency tied to the power line (50 or 60 Hz) and a predictable, repeating appearance.

Why this fits: the description of small, uniform spikes matches line noise caused by electrical sources, which contaminates the ECG signal in a regular way. To reduce it, check grounding, use shielded leads, keep leads away from electrical devices, and, if possible, employ a notch filter at the power-line frequency.

Additional notes: artifact is more irregular and variable, often due to movement or poor electrode contact. Baseline refers to shifts in the overall vertical position of the tracing, not a uniform spike pattern. An amplifier is the equipment that enhances the signal, not a type of interference.