ECG Interpretation Flashcards
QRS complex represents what?
Width of QRS complex?
QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization
0.12 seconds or 3 small squares
T wave represents what?
T wave represent ventricular re-polarization. Aka getting the cells ready for another depolarization.
What is PR interval?
Normal duration?
Time between P wave and Onset of QRS
3-5 small squares 0.12-0.2 seconds
What is SA node?
Responsible for?
Sino-atrial node
Atrial depolarization
Normal sinus rhythm beats per minute?
60-100bpm
How to establish rate of rhythm manually?
Count the number of large square and divide by 300
Example R to R points
Tip
Whenever you are unsure if there is a T wave, if you see another QRS Complex then there must have been a T wave
Sinus bradycardia bpm?
Sinus tachycardia bpm?
Less than 60 bpm
Greater than 100 bpm
Atrial fibrillation is
Characterized by a lack of definitive P waves. Irregular rhythm between 120 to 160 bpm. Slow afib is less common 50-120 bpm
P wave represents what?
P wave represents atrial depolarization
What are F waves?
Atrial depolarizations in afib or a flutter
Tip
Atrial ectopic a are early beats that originate from the atria.
Ventricular ectopics are simply early ventricular beats which do not originate from the AV node.
SVT Tip
An SVT will usually have a narrow QRS complex, unless the patient has a bundle branch block
Vfib tip
No P wave, QRS complexes, T wave
V fib is life-threatening rhythm that needs emergency treatment in the form of electrical cardioversion, cardiopulmonary resuscitation in advanced life support. Rhythm should be confirmed by checking the ECG leads are attached properly to the patient.
Why is vfib a life-threatening rhythm?
Because the ventricles are the main pumping chambers within the heart
