Proper positioning of the electrodes for leads I, II, and III requires placement on the patient's torso.

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Leads I, II, III, aVR, aVL, and aVF are obtained from electrodes placed on the patient's arms and legs. The deltoid area is suitable for electrodes attached to the arms and is easily accessible. Either the thigh or lower leg is suitable for the leg electrodes. Use the more convenient site, but keep the electrodes in a similar position. For example, keep the upper extremity electrodes on the deltoids, not one on the upper arm, and one on the inner arm. Be sure that the patient's limbs are resting on a supportive surface. This decreases muscle tension in the patient's arms and legs and helps minimize distortion of the ECG tracing (i.e., artifact). Should circumstances require that the leads be placed on the torso, be certain to position them as close to the appropriate limb as possible.

Proper Positioning of the Electrodes for Leads I, II, and III