Which of the following best describes the placement of the aVL lead?

Which of the following best describes the placement of the aVL lead?

• A. On the left foot
• B. On the left arm
• C. On the right arm
• D. On the right leg

Answer: (B)

The aVL lead is positioned on the left arm, specifically at the left shoulder. This placement is significant because the aVL lead is one of the unipolar limb leads that helps in assessing the electrical activity of the heart from the perspective of the left side, providing vital information about the lateral aspect of the myocardium. The use of aVL is crucial in conjunction with other leads to create a comprehensive view of the heart’s electrical activity, particularly in diagnosing potential issues such as ischemia or infarction in the lateral walls of the left ventricle. Understanding the specific location of each lead helps in correctly interpreting EKG readings and identifying any abnormalities related to heart function.