ECG Interpretation & Patient Care Study Guide

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to ECG interpretation and management of arrhythmias, derived from lecture notes.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

A recording of the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time.

Sinoatrial (SA) Node

The natural pacemaker of the heart, located in the right atrium.

Atrial Fibrillation (A Fib)

An irregular and often rapid heart rate that can lead to blood clots, stroke, and other complications.

Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs)

Early heartbeats originating from the atrial wall that disrupt the normal rhythm.

Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)

A life-threatening heart rhythm that results in rapid, erratic electrical impulses causing the ventricles to quiver.

QRS Complex

The part of an ECG representing ventricular depolarization.

T wave

The part of the ECG that represents ventricular repolarization.

Heart Rate

The number of heartbeats per minute; normal range is 60–100 bpm.

PR Interval

The time taken for an electrical impulse to travel from the SA node through the AV node; normal duration is 0.12–0.20 seconds.

Artifact

Irregularities in ECG readings that can result from patient movement, loose electrodes, or electrical interference.

Sinus Bradycardia

A heart rate of less than 60 bpm originating from the SA node.

Sinus Tachycardia

A heart rate of more than 100 bpm, also originating from the SA node.

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)

A rapid heart rate where the ventricles beat very quickly, typically between 150-250 bpm.

Asystole

Absence of electrical activity in the heart, resulting in a flatline on an ECG.

Holter Monitor

A portable device used to continuously monitor the heart's rhythms for 24 to 48 hours.

ECG Lead Placement

The systematic placement of electrodes on the body to obtain a clear view of the heart's electrical activity.