What should be the technologist's first response to a 60 Hz artifact in one electrode?

The initial response to a 60 Hz artifact in one electrode is to check the electrode impedance. This step is crucial because impedance can significantly affect the quality of the signal being recorded. High impedance can indicate that the electrode is not making good contact with the skin, leading to noise artifacts such as the 60 Hz interference often caused by electrical interference from nearby devices or power lines. By checking the impedance, the technologist can assess whether the electrode needs adjustment or replacement, ensuring accurate data collection.

Addressing the other options: replacing the electrode may not be necessary initially, as the issue might be due to poor adhesion rather than a faulty electrode. Calibrating the machine is also not the immediate solution, as the problem is likely related to the electrode itself rather than the equipment. Consulting with a supervisor could be beneficial later if the issue persists after checking impedance, but it is not the first step to resolving the artifact.