What is the standard paper speed for printing EKG strips?

The standard paper speed for printing EKG strips is 25 mm per second. This speed is widely accepted in clinical practice, allowing for a clear and accurate representation of the heart's electrical activity. At this speed, the intervals and durations within the EKG are adequately displayed, making it easier for healthcare professionals to interpret the data effectively.

Using 25 mm per second helps in maintaining a balance between clarity and space on the paper, ensuring that all critical waveforms, such as P waves, QRS complexes, and T waves, are well-defined and spaced appropriately for analysis. Adjusting the paper speed to significantly higher or lower rates can lead to confusion and potential misinterpretation of the EKG as the time intervals deviate from the standard, complicating the assessment of heart rhythm, rate, and other important characteristics.