ECG Flashcards
electrocardiogram
how many electrodes do you need to attach to obtain a 12-lead ECG?
10 (6 precordial and 4 limb)
where is V1 placed?
4th intercostal space, right sternal margin
where is V2 placed?
4th intercostal space, left sternal margin
where is V3 placed?
midway between V2 and V4
where is V4 placed?
5th intercostal space, mid-clavicular line
where is V5 placed?
5th intercostal sapce, anterior axillary line (at the same level as V4)
where is V6 placed?
5th intercostal space, mid-axillary line (at the same level as V4)
what colour limb lead goes on the right arm (RA)?
red
what colour limb lead goes of the left arm (LA)?
yellow
what colour limb lead goes on the left leg (LL)?
green
what colour limb lead goes on the right leg (RL)?
black
what is ventricular fibrillation (VF)?
irregular broad complex tachycardia. always a pulseless rhythm
what are the ECG features of VF?
QRS complexes are polymorphic and irregular
what is the management of VF?
emergency DC cardioversion (200 J biphasic unsynchronised shock)
what are the ECG features of ventricular tachycardia (VT)?
- tachycardia +
- absent P waves +
- monomorphic regular broad QRS complexes (>120ms)
what is the management of pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT)?
emergency DC cardioversion (200 J biphasic unsynchronised shock)
what is the management of ventricular tachycardia with a pulse + adverse features?
adverse features = shock, syncope, MI, heart failure
synchronsed DC shock
what is the management of ventricular tachycardia with a pulse + no adverse features?
amiodarone
* 300mg IV over 20-60 mins
* then 900mg IV over 24 hours
what is torsades de pointes?
form of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (PVT) caused by QT prolongation
need to have QT prolongation + PVT to be diagnosed
what are the ECG features of torsades de pointes (TdP)?
QRS complexes ‘twisting’ around the isoelectric line