INTRODUCTION TO ECG (ELECTROCARDIOGRAM) EKG

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a graphic representation of electrical activity generated by the heart. The signals, detected by means of metal electrodes attached to the extremities and chest wall, are amplified and recorded by the electrocardiograph. ECG leads (derivations) are configured to display the instantaneous differences in potential between specific pairs of electrodes. The utility of the ECG derives from its immediate availability as a noninvasive, inexpensive, and highly versatile test. In addition to its use in detecting arrhythmias and myocardial ischemia, it may reveal findings related to life-threatening metabolic disturbances or to increased susceptibility to sudden cardiac arrest

1. BASICS OF ECG Majola K PGDip Nursing Education (Student)

2. At the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Perform ECG correctly Describe ECG Understand main features Identify basic normal ECG and, Abnormal ECG

3. Correct electrode placement is paramount to correct ECG reading and interpretation

4. The Precordial Leads

5. The Normal ECG Sinus rhythm (Cardiac impulse originates from the SA Node and every QRS complex must be preceded by the P wave) Rate 50 – 100 bpm Intervals: PR 0.12-0.20 sec QRS < 0.12 sec

6. HOW DO WE GET TO 12 LEADS WITH 10 ELECTRODES?

7. V1, V2 : Mostly Negative V3 : Isoelectric V4-V6 : Mostly Positive

8. Lateral Leads (LCA) Inferior Leads (RCA) Septal Leads (LAD) Anterior leads (LAD)

9. References. 1. Petty, B.G. 2020. Basic electrocardiography. Springer Nature. The End Tomorrow we will be doing practice to identify most common pathologies on ECGs.

10. A Quick Recap We have LCA, LAD, RCA (What are these?) Let’s go to the scenario.

11. Lateral Leads (LCA) Inferior Leads (RCA) Septal Leads (LAD) Anterior leads (LAD)

12. Discuss what could be the possible pathology on this ECG.