Disclosed are various embodiments for electrodes and sensors having nanowires. According to an embodiment as described, a dry sensor is provided. Nanowires, such as silver nanowires, are positioned within a polymer material, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to form an electrode. A conductive element is attached to the electrode during its formation. Example conductive elements include, but are not limited to, a contact or a wire that may be communicatively coupled to medical equipment.