What are the 7 steps to interpret an ECG?

How to Interpret an ECG in Seven Steps

  1. Step 1: Heart Rate.
  2. Step 2: Heart Rhythm.
  3. Step 3: Electrical Heart Axis.
  4. Step 4: The PR Interval.
  5. Step 5: The QRS Complex.
  6. Step 6: Repolarization.
  7. Step 7: The R/S Ratio.
  8. How to Interpret an ECG: An Overview.

What are the 8 steps needed to analyze an EKG?

Analyzing a Rhythm Strip Using the Eight Step Approach

  • Step One: Determine the Rate.
  • Step Two: Determine the Rhythm.
  • Step Three: Evaluate P Waves.
  • Step Four: Evaluate the P-R interval.
  • Step Five: Evaluate the QRS complex.
  • Step Six: Evaluate T Wave.
  • Step Seven: Evaluate the QT Interval.
  • Step Eight: Evaluate other components.

What are the five steps when analyzing an ECG?

Step 1: Locate the P wave.

  • Step 2: Establish the relationship between P waves and the QRS complex.
  • Step 3: Analyze the QRS morphology.
  • Step 4: Search for other clues.
  • Step 5: Interpret the rhythm in the clinical setting.

    • What are normal EKG results?

    Normal 12-Lead EKG/ECG Values

    Wave/Interval Values
    P Wave Amplitude: 2-2.5 mm high (Or 2.5 squares) Deflection: + in I, II, AVF, V2-V6 Duration: 0.06 – 0.12 sec
    PR Interval Duration: 0.012 – 0.20 sec
    QRS Complex Amplitude: 5-30 mm high Deflection: + in I, II, III, AVL, AVF, V4-V6 Duration: 0.06 – 0.10 sec

    How do you know if your EKG is abnormal?

    Seek emergency medical attention if you experience:

    1. chest pain or discomfort.
    2. difficulty breathing.
    3. heart palpitations or feeling your heart beating oddly.
    4. the feeling that you might pass out.
    5. racing heart.
    6. the feeling that your chest is being squeezed.
    7. sudden weakness.

    What are the steps to perform an EKG?

    Simple steps for the correct placement of electrodes for a 12 lead ECG/EKG:

    1. Prepare the skin.
    2. Find and mark the placements for the electrodes:
    3. First, identify V1 and V2.
    4. Next, find and mark V3 – V6.
    5. Apply electrodes to the chest at V1 – V6.
    6. Connect wires from V1 to V6 to the recording device.
    7. Apply limb leads.

    How do you interpret master ECG?

    10 Steps to Learn ECG Interpretation

    1. Learn the Basics of a 12-lead ECG Tracing.
    2. Determine Heart Rate on the ECG.
    3. Determine Axis on the ECG.
    4. Learn Abnormal Heart Rhythms.
    5. Learn Chamber Hypertrophies and Bundle Blocks.
    6. Learn Acute MI and Ischemic ECG Findings.
    7. Learn the Everything Else Including Atypical ECG Findings.

    How can you tell bradycardia from ECG?

    Sinus bradycardia occurs on an ECG when there is a normal upright P wave in lead II ― sinus P wave ― preceding every QRS complex with a ventricular rate of less than 60 beats per minute.

    What is the third step of analyzing an ECG rhythm?

    The third step is to get the heart rate (ventricular and note the atrial rate). Determine if the rhythm is regular or irregular in general. Count the rate using the appropriate method for the rhythm (i.e., the 6 second method if the rhythm is irregular and the R to R method for a precise heart rate).

    Is it really necessary to learn to read an EKG?

    EKG/ECG proficiency is required for many nursing jobs. Telemetry, cardiac, and stepdown units all require some level of proficiency. Nurses interested in working in the intensive care unit or cardiac care unit are required to be proficient in reading EKGs. These jobs are also in high-demand.

    How long does it take a doctor to read an EKG?

    5- 10 minutes. Ekg to read should not more than 5- 10 min.

    Do you need to be fast for an EKG?

    Generally, fasting (not eating) is not required before the test. Tell your doctor of all medicines (prescribed and over-the-counter), vitamins, herbs, and supplements that you are taking. Tell your doctor if you have a pacemaker. Based on your medical condition, your doctor may request other specific preparation.

    How reliable is an EKG?

    The EKG is extremely safe and there is no risk involved. In rare cases, some people may develop skin irritation from the electrode adhesive, but no serious allergic reactions have been reported. The only preparation for an EKG to wear clothes that allow easy access to your chest.