Dear Nurses

EKG SERIES - WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS EKG

EKG Series - An Overview

Many nurses may feel intimidated by learning to read an EKG. This 4 part series has been broken down into bold illustrations, simple language and easy learning.

Part 1 (What is wrong with this EKG) gives a basic description about how to interpret the EKG rhythm. P, QRS and T waves are identified on graph paper. The heart as a pump and the electrical conduction system is descrbed in great detail. Sinus rhythms, AV blocks (first degree, second degree types 1 and 2 and 3rd degree AV blocks are included), pacemaker intervention, temporary pacemaker, transcutaneous pacing, atrial rhythms(atrial fibrillation and its relation to stroke), ventricular rhythms such as V-tach and V-fib, PEA and asystole. The use of oxygen, drugs such as Epinephrine. Dopamine, Amiodarone are discussed. Cardioversion as a form of treatment for atrial fibrillation is also identified. Myocardial Infarction, its causes and treatment are also discussed.

Part 2. (Where is that Myocardial Infarction) describes using beautiful illustrations the heart's main blood supply, how to recognize myocardial ischemia vs infarction, the 12 lead EKg and placement, the clinical picture of a patient in cardiogenic shock and the management of a patient with chest pain.

Part 3 (What's going on at the Junction?) focuses on the function of the AV node, EKG rhythms involving the AV node, recognizing the causes, signs, symptoms of junctional rhythms and understanding myocardial ischemia.

Part 4 (What is the odd beat?) last but not least, rhythms such as sinus arrest, sick sinus syndrome, sinus arrhythmia, SVT (supraventricular tachycardia) are discussed. Hope you enjoy learning