Monitoring EKG Lab Using Vernier Lab Pro by June Tuttle, Chatham Hall

Objectives In this experiment students  use the EKG Sensor to collect an EKG waveform.  determine the time interval between EKG events.  calculate heart rate based on their EKG recording.

Materials  Vernier Lab Pro interface  Vernier EKG sensor  Vernier Biology Lab Manual  EKG patches  Printer  Computer

Lab Setup/Procedure  Connect the EKG sensor to the Channel 1 in the LabPro.  Connect the parallel cable to the input jack on the LabPro and the port on the computer.  Connect AC adapter to Lab Pro and plug into wall socket.  Install Logger Pro on computer.

Procedure continued…  Make parameter changes in sample collection and experiment setup menus as suggested in the Vernier Biology Lab Manual (teacher notes).  Place EKG patches on arms and attach EKG electrodes.  Begin collection run.

Sample EKGs

Helpful Tips To eliminate background noise on the EKG…  Have students remove wristwatches  Students should avoid having their hands touching during the EKG run.  Students should not move during the EKG run.

Conclusions  One of the easiest and quickest lab setups I have done all year!  Students are excited about doing their own EKGs and enthusiastic about the lab.  Provides an opportunity to talk about diagnostic tools used in cardiology.

A Special Thank You to Pittsylvania County School District for sponsoring the Lab Pro Workshop