Usefulness, pitfalls and interpretation of handheld single‑lead electrocardiograms

Single‑lead electrocardiograms (1 L-ECGs) are increasingly used in (pre)clinical settings for the detection and monitoring of a range of rhythm and conduction disorders. In this short communication paper, we aim to provide an overview of the usefulness and potential pitfalls when implementing 1 L-ECGs into everyday clinical practice. Moreover, we provide recommendations for improving signal quality, as well as a systematic approach to the interpretation of 1 L-ECGs, which is somewhat different from standard 12‑lead ECGs. Clinicians can use our illustrations and checklist as guidance when recording and interpreting 1 L-ECGs.