How many leads does a standard 12-lead EKG use?

A standard 12-lead EKG utilizes 12 leads to provide a comprehensive assessment of the heart's electrical activity from multiple angles. These leads include four limb leads and six chest leads. The limb leads, consisting of two electrodes placed on each arm and one on each leg, create a view of the heart's activity in the frontal plane. The chest leads are placed on specific positions across the chest to offer a view of the heart in the horizontal plane. By combining data from all 12 leads, healthcare providers can accurately identify various cardiac conditions, including arrhythmias, ischemia, and infarcts, making it a crucial tool in cardiac assessments.