Where should electrodes for V4 and V5 be placed on a patient with large breasts?

For accurate placement of electrodes V4 and V5 on a patient with large breasts, adjusting their position at the normal locations is crucial to ensure reliable electrocardiogram (ECG) readings. V4 should typically be placed in the fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line, while V5 is placed at the same horizontal level as V4 but at the anterior axillary line. When patients have large breasts, it is essential to position the electrodes appropriately to avoid interference from the breast tissue that could potentially obstruct signal quality.

Making adjustments allows the electrodes to remain within the anatomical landmarks where they can pick up the best electrical signals from the heart. Ensuring proper placement is critical for the accuracy of the ECG and effective patient monitoring, which is essential for diagnosing cardiac conditions.