What are Hypoallergenic ECG Electrodes?
For those patients with fragile or sensitive skin, sticking any device to their skin can cause irritation. While looking for a gentle ECG electrode, there are many buzz words used. Unfortunately in the case of the word ‘hypoallergenic’ the FDC has no regulation on its meaning.
While “Allergen-Free” and “Hypoallergenic” are enticing terms that are commonly used in marketing, with no regulation they have no real meaning. So let’s dig in to what each of these buzz words can mean.
Allergen-Free Electrodes
Nothing can be truly “allergen-free” since even the most elemental or basic ingredients can technically cause an allergic reaction to somebody. The term is commonly used when common allergens (latex, certain dyes/fragrances, or metals) are avoided. When finding an electrode that is the best for sensitive skin, it is best to find the specific allergens that have been avoided in the production of the gels, tapes, or any other area of concern. Nissha’s 
are latex-free, neoprene-free, lead-free, and mercury-free.
Hypoallergenic Electrodes
Hypoallergenic is generally used to mean the product causes fewer reactions than other comparable products. Since there is no FDC regulation on the term, it is best to realize this term should be compared against products from the same distributor/producer as opposed to finding “comparable products” from different distributors.
Electrodes for Sensitive Skin
Sensitive and Fragile skin can be broken or irritated easily. Some important factors for product differentiation are adhesive strength and the size of the electrode sticker. Other factors include material of the substrate, as well as the type of gel used.
- Adhesive: A regular grade adhesive will have a more gentle removal than a high-tack adhesive. If the adhesive is noted as ‘diaphoretic’, the ECG sticker may stick better to sweaty skin, denoting a stronger bond to the skin. A high tack, or strong adhesive has the potential to be more irritating on skin. Our Performance Plus electrodes feature our strongest adhesive.
- Size/Shape:Though this is not a major factor of irritability, keeping the electrode size small helps reduce the need for strong adhesion as well as the area subject to irritation.
- Substrate Material: (foam, cloth, tape, vinyl etc.) A breathable material would allow for more movement. Also, a see-through material could reduce the need to move electrodes. Since removal tends to be one of the most irritating points while using electrodes, less repositioning would be helpful.
- Gel: Noting if the electrode uses solid or wet gels is not the only factor to consider. Different Chloride content can cause different levels of irritation. VERMED ECG electrodes can go up to 10% which allows for quicker, more reliable tracing. However, higher chloride content is intended for shorter duration use. Our higher chloride content electrodes are our EMS electrodes where time is of the essence. Some of our VersaTrode and SoftTouch electrodes have lower choride contents making them less irritating to sensitive individuals.
Dermatologist Tested/Recommended Electrodes
All Nissha Products meet or exceed AAMI standards (FDA). If you do not have access know the specific testing procedures, or why the item is being recommended, this is purely a marketing label.
Medical-Grade
‘Medical Grade’ may have a professional tone, but does not imply a higher quality of ingredients used. This just means it is able to fulfill the needs of the item to the FDA regulations. When looking for a solution for sensitive skin, this is an irrelevant qualifier.
Deciding on the Best Electrode for you
The most important aspect when finding the best electrode for you or your company is knowing the needs of your patients. By considering each of the different components that make up your EKG electrode you can pinpoint which factors are most beneficial to your needs.
For example if you know your patients will be in and out of MRI’s or other screening devices, looking for an electrode that is MR Conditional would be a very high priority. Because these electrodes have carbon snaps they can stay on during scans, reducing the removal and reapplication.
If you are brand new to ordering electrodes we recommend you touch base with one of our team members to discuss the needs you have once we have an understanding of all your needs we will be able to dive into the products that would help you the most.