What is the typical speed of standard EKG paper recording?

The typical speed of standard EKG paper recording is 25 mm/sec. This speed is widely used in clinical practice because it provides a good balance between clarity and detail for the interpretation of an electrocardiogram. At this speed, the EKG waveform can be displayed accurately, allowing healthcare professionals to assess the rhythm, rate, and other important features of the heart's electrical activity effectively.

When the EKG is recorded at 25 mm/sec, each small square on the standard EKG paper represents 0.04 seconds, which allows for precise timing of the electrical events in the heart. This standardization is crucial for accurate analysis and comparison of EKG tracings.

Understanding the standard speed is important for consistency in readings and comparisons over time. Different speeds, while used in some settings or specific situations, are less common for routine recordings.