[ANMCO/AIIC/SIT Consensus document: Definition, precision and appropriateness of the electrocardiographic signal of electrocardiographic recorders, ergometry systems, Holter systems, telemetry and bedside monitors].

The ECG signal can be derived from different sources. These include systems for surface ECG, Holter monitoring, ergometric stress tests and systems for telemetry and bedside monitoring of vital parameters, useful to rhythm and ST-segment analysis and ECG screening of cardiac electrical sudden death predictors. A precise ECG diagnosis is based upon a correct recording, elaboration and presentation of the signal. Several sources of artifacts and potential external causes may influence the quality of the original ECG waveforms. Other factors that may affect the quality of the information presented depends upon the technical solutions employed to improve the signal. The choice of the instrumentations and solutions used to offer a high quality ECG signal are therefore of paramount importance. Some requirements are reported in detail in scientific statements and recommendations. The aim of this consensus document is to offer a scientific reference for the choice of systems able to offer a high quality ECG signal acquisition, processing and presentation suitable for clinical use.