Electrodes are tiny terminals made of conducting materials that help transmit electric currents to non-metallic elements like semiconductors, vacuum, etc. Electrodes are used to transmit ionic current to a human body. When amplified within the body, they can be used to detect any type of anomaly in the nervous, cardiac, or muscular systems. The electrode helps to create electrical contact between the patient and the equipment used in monitoring activities.
Electrodes can be classified into two main types based on their usage and specifications.
Electrode types according to usage:
EEG electrodes
ECG electrodes
Defibrillator electrodes
Blood gas electrodes
Electrode types according to specifications:
Disposable electrodes
Reusable disc electrodes
Headband electrodes
Saline based electrodes
Electrodes can further be subdivided into TENS electrodes, ion-selective electrodes, pacemaker electrodes, pH electrodes, nasopharyngeal electrodes, electrosurgical electrodes, and fetal scalp electrodes.
