Product Frequently Asked Questions

How many times can the electrodes be used?

The number of uses depends entirely on the proper application, storage and care by the user. The durability of the electrodes depends on the adhesiveness of the gel and its adhesiveness depends on keeping the gel clean, hydrated, and free from foreign debris.

Application: Before each electrode application, skin must be cleaned with water and soap to remove any lotions, skin oils, make-up, and dead skin. Any debris on the skin will be transferred to the gel of the electrode thereby compromising the integrity of the gel's adhesiveness. A clean surface is the most important factor in the number of applications for an electrode.

Storage: After every use the electrode must be returned to the "ON" side of the Mylar liner and placed in the original, re-sealable package to prevent loss of moisture. Electrodes should be stored at a temperature between 41.0°-80.6°F.

DO NOT: store in freezer/refrigerator, leave in extreme heat, submerge in water, or leave outside of the package.

Care: After usage, if the electrode picks up small amounts of debris you may use a drop of water on your finger to gently rub the debris off the electrode. Most important to the care of the electrode is applying it to a clean surface with each use.

DO NOT: use soap, alcohol, submerge in water, or scrub with abrasive material.

Are your electrodes disposable?

Yes. When electrodes show wear and tear, or are no longer comfortable for the patient, simply replace them with a new set.

Can electrodes be used by more than one patient?

For proper hygiene, the FDA requires them to be labeled for single patient use. Our electrodes are intended for single patient use only. By sharing electrodes, you are subjected to cross contamination. All electrodes are disposable and should be discarded if compromised, and a fresh set used.

We design our products for reuse provided there is proper care of the skin and the electrodes. However, with reuse, the risk of contamination increases with each application. Each time an electrode is removed, it lifts off dirt and skin debris, which in turn becomes absorbed into the gel. To maintain optimal hygiene you would want to change electrodes when they become contaminated in this fashion. The pH of our gel is controlled at a level to prevent the spontaneous growth of molds. However, during use in a spore rich environment, it is possible to overwhelm this mold growth control feature of the gel.

Are your electrodes hypoallergenic?

PALS® Clinical electrodes are made with DermaFlow® hydrogel, specially formulated with a composition less likely to cause allergic reactions or skin sensitivity. While DermaFlow is designed to be our most gentle to skin hydrogel yet, there is still a slight chance of a patient developing skin sensitivity as different people have different reactions. All Axelgaard hydrogels have passed ISO 10993 testing for skin irritation, sensitization and cytotoxicity.

Are your electrodes antimicrobial?

Axelgaard's MultiStick® hydrogel's proprietary formula has always exhibited antimicrobial properties since it was first patented in 1999. Testing by the independent EMSL Analytic Laboratory has demonstrated the gel's ability to kill MRSA with an observed > 99.99999% reduction. For proper hygiene, the FDA requires electrodes to be labeled for single patient use only.

Do your products contain latex?

All products manufactured by Axelgaard Manufacturing are latex free. We do not use latex of any kind in the electrodes we manufacture or in the packaging.

How do I remove an electrode from the skin?

Always lift electrodes from the edge - not the leadwire.

Can I use hot or cold packs?

Use of hot or cold packs for long periods of time can cause adhesive separation.

Where are your electrodes made?

Our products are made only in the USA.