Where is the V2 lead placed in the standard 12-lead ECG placement?

The V2 lead is correctly placed on the left side of the sternum at the fourth intercostal space. This specific location is important for accurately recording the electrical activity of the heart from the perspective of the cardiac axis as well as providing information related to both anterior and lateral portions of the heart.

Placing the V2 lead here helps in detecting issues like arrhythmias or ischemia, particularly in the anterior wall of the left ventricle. Proper placement is essential for obtaining a reliable and useful ECG, as incorrect lead positioning can lead to misinterpretations of heart rhythms or other cardiac conditions.

In contrast, the other options suggest locations that do not correlate with the standard locations for ECG lead placement. For instance, placing the lead on the right side of the sternum or in the abdomen would not capture the necessary information about the heart's activity, while a location above the right shoulder is too far to adequately assess the electrical signals necessary for a clear interpretation of heart function.