EKG Midterm

What is the role of an EKG technician regarding EKG rhythms?

An EKG technician needs to identify normal and abnormal EKG rhythms and recognize changes that may signal heart problems or injury.

What is the definition of a normal EKG tracing?

A normal EKG tracing is called a normal sinus rhythm (NSR) with a rate of 60-100 BPM and regular rhythm.

What are the characteristics of the P wave in a normal sinus rhythm?

There is one P wave before each QRS complex, and they are all identical, positive, and uniform.

What is the significance of the U wave in EKG readings?

A large U wave may indicate a low potassium level, while an inverted U wave can indicate heart disease or a myocardial infarction.

What should an EKG technician do if they notice a wandering baseline?

They should check for potential causes, such as patient's breathing, tight lead wires, or natural skin oils.

What causes a broken recording in EKG tracings?

A broken recording is most often caused by frayed or broken lead wires.

What rhythm is suggested by a wide and bizarre QRS complex at a heart rate of 30 BPM?

This is likely a sustained idioventricular rhythm (agonal rhythm), which is potentially lethal.

What does a widened QRS complex in leads V1 and V6 indicate?

This indicates a bundle branch block (BBB) that should be reported to the provider.

What is a hidden P wave and in which rhythms is it commonly observed?

A hidden P wave is one that cannot be seen and is often found in atrial rhythms.

What could cause negative deflection of QRS complexes in lead I and positive deflection in lead aVR?

This could be caused by incorrect placement of the right and left arm electrodes.