Basic ECG Concepts and Normal ECG

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to electrocardiography (ECG), their definitions, and significance.

SA node

The sinoatrial node, responsible for initiating cardiac electrical activity.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

A recording of the electrical activity of the heart, showing waveforms of cardiac electrical potentials.

Calipers

A tool used in heart rate calculation to measure intervals on an ECG.

QRS complex

Represents complete ventricular depolarization on an ECG.

Normal Axis Deviation (NAD)

The normal range for the heart's electrical axis, typically between 0 to 90 degrees.

P wave

Represents atrial depolarization; typically the first positive deflection in most leads.

PR Interval

The time measured from the beginning of the P wave to the beginning of the QRS complex.

ST Segment

The segment on the ECG that reflects the period between ventricular depolarization and repolarization.

Heart Rate

The number of heartbeats per minute, which can be calculated using various methods such as the Dark Line Method or 1500 Method.

Einthoven’s triangle

A triangular configuration that uses 10 electrodes to produce 12 leads for ECG interpretation.