Eukeka (I hope) I have just received a copy of an ECRI Health Devices report, March-April 1991-Vol.20,Nos.3-4.
This contains a description of artifactual noise associated with infusion pumps and haemodialysis machine pumps, the article contains the following explanation "ECG artifact is caused by the cyclic pinching and releasing of the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tubing (or possibly other plastic parts) in the pump, which can generate electricity through piezoelectric or static electricity effects. The resulting electrical signal flows into the patient through the fluid in the tubing and may be picked up through the ECG electrodes. The currents associated with this signal pose no electrical safety risk".
The article goes on to recommend the use of good quality electrodes, proper skin preparation, monitoring lead selection etc.
Hope this is useful to you, thanks for your comments.
