Ekg Heart Rhythms. This test detects the electrical activity of the heartbeat through electrodes. Denotes a 6 second interval on ekg strip strip is marked by 3 or 6 second tick marks on the top or bottom of the graph paper count the number of qrs complexes occurring within the 6 second interval and then multiply that number by 10. Although heart rate can be calculated easily by taking a pulse studies show that an ecg electrocardiogram may be necessary to determine if there is any damage to the heart how well a device or drug is working whether the heart is beating normally or to determine the location and size of the heart chambers. These events are part of an ekg tracing and are called p q r s t and u.
Examples of each ecg tracing are provided and after each article is a short video that simulates the acls ecg on a defibrillator monitor. The ekg will show a fast heart rate anywhere from 100 to up to 300 bpm. Although heart rate can be calculated easily by taking a pulse studies show that an ecg electrocardiogram may be necessary to determine if there is any damage to the heart how well a device or drug is working whether the heart is beating normally or to determine the location and size of the heart chambers. The first movement of the ecg tracing usually upwards is the p wave indicating electrical activity that triggers atrial contraction. Interpreting ekg rhythm strips step 1 heart rate. Arrhythmia is an abnormally slow or fast heart rate or an irregular cardiac rhythm.
This technique will give you the most accurate heart rate when analyzing regular heart rhythms.
Rhythms from ventricular fibrillation to complete heart block are covered. You may include of a small box i e. Diagnosing abnormal heart rhythms your doctor will perform a physical examination which will include using a stethoscope to listen to your heart. Interpreting ekg rhythm strips step 1 heart rate. Examples of each ecg tracing are provided and after each article is a short video that simulates the acls ecg on a defibrillator monitor. This technique will give you the most accurate heart rate when analyzing regular heart rhythms.