What is the normal speed at which EKG paper moves?

The normal speed at which EKG paper moves is 25 mm/second. This standard speed allows for accurate representation of the heart's electrical activity, ensuring that the measurement of time intervals between beats and the amplitude of the electrical signals can be interpreted clearly.

At this speed, each small square on the EKG paper, which measures 1 mm by 1 mm, corresponds to 0.04 seconds (or 40 milliseconds) in time. This precise timing is essential for assessing aspects like heart rate and rhythm, detecting arrhythmias, and analyzing the overall heart function.

The other speeds listed do not reflect the standard for EKG measurements. For instance, while 20 mm/second could potentially be used in certain scenarios, it is not the conventional speed most healthcare professionals rely on for accurate diagnostics. Similarly, speeds of 30 mm/second and 35 mm/second would potentially distort the waveforms, making it challenging to assess the proper intervals and amplitudes that are critical for diagnosing cardiac conditions effectively.