DIY ECG Pads

DIY ECG Pads

ECG machines measure changes in skin surface potentials to monitor the heart rate. The pads and conductive gel are not expensive in the West, but supplies may be spotty in rural developing areas. To equip those health posts and raise awareness in the States, Engineering World Health, a healthcare technology provider, hit on the idea for these DIY pads made from bottle-cap liners and buttons.

How to make the pads: 1. Boil beer or soda bottle caps in water for 30 minutes, then peel off the rubber lining from the bottom. 2. Cut an "X" in the center of the pad and insert a nickel-plated brass sewing snap through the hole. That's your pad.

How to make conductive gel: 1. In a glass bottle, mix one cup of water with two tablespoons of salt. 2. Add one cup of flour and mix. 3. Make it hygienic with a drop of bleach.

Read more: 7 Medical Device Upgrades for Developing Countries - Popular Mechanics