What does an EKG reading that shows a baseline wander indicate?

A baseline wander on an EKG often indicates possible motion artifact or poor electrode contact. This phenomenon can occur due to various factors such as patient movement, respiration, or incorrect electrode placement. When the baseline of the EKG fluctuates instead of remaining stable, it suggests that the signals being recorded may be influenced by external or environmental factors rather than purely reflecting the heart's electrical activity.

In contrast to other options, a normal cardiac function would typically display a stable baseline without significant wander. If a patient were in acute distress, this would more likely present with other distinctive changes in the EKG, such as ST-segment elevation or depression, rather than just baseline wander. High blood pressure does not directly cause baseline wander but can lead to other EKG abnormalities, and thus it wouldn't be associated with this specific finding. Therefore, identifying the baseline wander as a sign of artifact or poor electrode contact is crucial for accurate EKG interpretation and ensuring the validity of the reading.