abstract |
A multipurpose medical stimulating electrode is described for use in external cardiac pacing, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and neuromuscular stimulation which includes a protective cover layer at the top extending over and bonded to the upper surface of an electrically conductive layer, e.g. carbon filled silicone rubber having a resistivity of about 100 ohm centimeters on the lower surface of which is coated a selfsupporting skin contacting hydrogel layer comprising a matrix having a sticky surface adapted to make a good electrical contact with the skin and having a resistivity of greater than 1,000 and less than 10,000 ohm centimeters. The matrix is composed of natural or synthetic hydrocolloid, e.g. polyacrylamide, and/or natural gum such as karaya gum, water and a humectant comprising a polyhydric alcohol and optionally with Mg(OAc)2 as a gelation inhibitor and electrolyte. |