What is the color of the aVR (augmented vector right) ECG (electrocardiogram) lead?

From the Guidelines

The AVR ECG lead is typically colored white. This information is based on standard electrocardiographic monitoring practices, as outlined in guidelines such as those from the American Heart Association 1. The standard 12-lead ECG, which includes the AVR lead, requires specific electrode placements to ensure accurate readings. According to the American Heart Association's scientific statement from the councils on cardiovascular nursing, clinical cardiology, and cardiovascular disease in the young, endorsed by the International Society of Computerized Electrocardiology and the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses 1, the AVR lead is one of the unipolar leads that measure the potential variation at a single electrode. Key points to consider when setting up ECG leads include:

• The use of a standard color coding system to ensure consistency and accuracy in lead placement
• The specific placement of electrodes for each lead, including the AVR lead on the right arm
• The importance of proper lead placement for obtaining accurate ECG readings, which are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring cardiac conditions. Proper identification and placement of ECG leads, including the AVR lead, are essential for ensuring patient safety and accurate diagnosis in clinical practice, ultimately impacting morbidity, mortality, and quality of life 1.

From the Research

ECG Lead aVR Color

The color of ECG lead aVR is not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, the studies discuss the importance and clinical utility of lead aVR in various conditions, including:

• Coronary artery disease 2, 3
• Pericarditis 2, 3, 4
• Pulmonary embolism 3, 4
• Heart failure 5
• Edematous states 5

Key Findings

Some key findings related to lead aVR include:

• It is an unipolar lead facing the right superior surface 3
• All waves (P, QRS, T) are negative in aVR in normal sinus rhythm 3
• Lead aVR is useful in localizing coronary artery disease and predicting prognosis 3
• It can help differentiate between inferior wall MI and left anterior fascicular block 3
• ST elevation in lead aVR is a bad prognostic sign in acute pulmonary embolism 3

Clinical Utility

The clinical utility of lead aVR is highlighted in several studies, including:

• Its use as an index of all ECG limb leads 5
• Its value in monitoring patients with edematous states, including heart failure 5
• Its importance in preventing unnecessary treatments 6