Key Points Normal Cardiac Rhythm: The heart typically beats in a regular, rhythmic pattern, with consistent intervals between beats. Rhythm Regularity: Regular rhythm is characterized by equal distances between consecutive…
Key Points It is important to confirm and interpret the heart rhythm yourself, as the ECG computer interpretation may be wrong! Clinical Context: Consider the clinical scenario—tachycardia or bradycardia may…
Key Points It is important to confirm and interpret the heart rate yourself, as the ECG computer interpretation may be wrong! For adults, a normal heart rate ranges from 60…
Key Points Definition: A fusion beat occurs when two different electrical impulses, one from the normal conduction system (typically a supraventricular impulse) and one from an ectopic ventricular source (like…
Key Points Persistent ST Elevation: Left ventricular aneurysm (LVA) causes persistent ST-segment elevation on the ECG, typically lasting more than 2 weeks post-myocardial infarction (MI). Common Location: This persistent elevation…
Key Points Clinical Indicators of Reperfusion: After administering thrombolytics for STEMI, closely monitor the patient for resolution of symptoms, including chest pain and other ischemic signs. ECG Signs of Reperfusion:…
Key Points Definition: Pseudonormalization refers to the normalization of previously abnormal (inverted) T waves, often seen in the context of reocclusion of an artery that had recently been reperfused. Mechanism:…
Key Points Definition: The QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization, which triggers the ventricles to contract. It is measured from the begining of the Q wave till the end of the…
Key Points Definition: QRS fragmentation (fQRS) refers to the presence of additional notches or spikes within the QRS complex, observed in at least two contiguous leads corresponding to a specific…
Key Points Step 1: Determine the Heart Rate Identify Unstable Tachydysrhythmias: Rapid heart rates that compromise hemodynamics, leading to hypotension, chest pain, altered mental status, or signs of shock. Identify…
Key Points Definition: Sinus arrhythmia refers to a variation in the heart rate during the respiratory cycle, characterized by a cyclical lengthening and shortening of the P-P interval on the…
Key Points Definition: Sinus bradycardia is a cardiac rhythm where the heart rate, originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node, is slower than normal, specifically below 60 bpm. Physiological Occurrence: It…
Key Points Definition: Normal sinus rhythm (NSR) refers to the heart’s rhythm when impulses originate from the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart’s primary pacemaker. This rhythm suggests that electrical impulses…
Key Points Definition: Slow ventricular tachycardia (VT) is characterized by a ventricular rate of 100-120 bpm. Distinction: Regular VT typically has a ventricular rate > 120 bpm. Context: Slow VT…
Key Points ECGs capture cardiac waveforms from changes in voltage measured between different points on the body. Each waveform recorded represents a specific portion of the electrophysiological events that occur…
Key Points A QRS duration greater than 120 ms indicates abnormal ventricular depolarization. A wide QRS can signal conditions that range from benign to immediately life-threatening. Developing a focused differential…
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