Abstract: A precordial overlay and dual backing assembly is expeditiously affixed together in a manner which allows it to be packaged in an unalterable form. When needed to obtain an ECG reading, the assembly is removed from the packaging and the precordial overlay swiftly separated from the dual backing. The dual backing is discarded. The precordial overlay is quickly and accurately positioned on a patient, The precordial overlay of the assembly comprises an elongated band having a first and a second generally rectangular-shaped sections joined together by an intermediate section. All three sections have at least one cut-out to receive an adhesive-backed electrode assembly. The dual backing of the assembly is similarly shaped and comprises a thin intermediate substrate with release agents on each side and a thin lower substrate with a release agent on a top side. The intermediate substrate further has a set of bent-back flaps, each flap positioned to receive an underside of one of the electrode assemblies.

Abstract: Electrode assemblies are particularly used with a precordial overlay to obtain a quick and accurate positioning of electrodes for an electrocardiographic test. Each electrode assembly comprises an electrode to receive a lead wire, an underlying non-conductive pad secured to the electrode, and an overlying plastic sheet secured to the electrode in a manner whereby its peripheral areas are unattached. Preferably, the electrode assembly also has an underlying adhesive layer secured to the non-conductive pad and a removable backing strip. The precordial overlay has a set of slots in which the electrode assemblies are slidably mounted. The underlying non-conductive pad and the overlying plastic sheet of the assemblies effectively trap the electrode assemblies in the slots to allow sliding electrode movement. The sliding movement of the electrodes allows for limited but quick movement from an approximate chest area location to a precise chest area location for a reliable electrocardiographic test.

Abstract: A precordial overlay is configured for precise electrode placement on a patient as part of an electrocardiographic test. It is especially useful by emergency medical personnel who are often called upon to obtain an ECG. The precordial overlay has an elongated band having a first generally rectangular-shaped section, a second generally rectangular-shaped and an intermediate section connecting the first and second sections. Electrodes are slidably mounted in the three sections to allow for limited but quick movement from an approximate chest area location to a precise chest area location for a reliable electrocardiographic test.