To avoid ground loops, how should the patient be grounded?

Ground loops can create noise and interference in neurophysiological monitoring, which may compromise the accuracy of data obtained during procedures. A ground loop occurs when there are multiple paths to ground that can create differences in electrical potential, leading to unwanted signals.

To effectively avoid ground loops in a monitoring setup, the patient should be connected to only one ground. This single grounding point ensures that there is no potential difference between grounding points which could lead to the development of ground loops. This approach minimizes the risk of introducing noise into the system and maintains the integrity of the collected signals.

Selecting a single, well-considered ground point is essential in maintaining a stable and reliable system for monitoring. Grounding the patient properly is crucial for the safety and accuracy of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, making it a standard practice in the field.