What does the term 'artifacts' refer to in EKG readings?

The term 'artifacts' in EKG readings specifically refers to unwanted external events or interference that can affect the accuracy of the EKG tracings. These artifacts may stem from various sources, such as muscle movements, electrical noise from nearby equipment, or poor electrode placement, and they can create misleading data on the EKG. Understanding artifacts is crucial for healthcare providers, as distinguishing between true cardiac signals and these unintended disturbances is essential for accurate diagnosis and patient management.

The other terms outlined in the options refer to distinct aspects of EKG interpretation. Signals caused by heart disease reflect underlying cardiac conditions but do not pertain to external interferences. Normal heartbeats are the expected regular patterns in an EKG that indicate healthy heart function. Specific electrical signals generated by the heart represent the natural impulses that trigger heartbeats but are unaffected by external factors. Therefore, acknowledging artifacts allows healthcare professionals to focus on the authentic data provided by the EKG rather than being misled by extraneous noise.