Lesson V (cont) - ECG Rhythm Abnormalities

Lesson V (cont) Introduction to ECG Rhythm

Analysis
Frank G. Yanowitz, MD
Associate Professor of Medicine
University of Utah School of Medicine

Return to the beginning of Lesson V

Things to Consider When Analyzing Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias may be seen on 12-lead ECGs or on strips of one or more leads.

Some arrhythmias are obvious at first glance and don't require intense analysis.
Others, however, are more fun! They require detective work, i.e., logical thinking
based on a knowledge of cardiac electrophysiology. The analysis should begin
with identifying characteristics of impulse formation (if known) as well as
impulse conduction. Here are some things to think about:

1. Descriptors of impulse formation (i.e. the pacemaker)

2. Descriptors of impulse conduction (i.e., how it moves through the heart)

1. Descriptors of impulse formation

(i.e. the pacemaker or region of impulse formation)

Site of origin (i.e., where is the abnormal rhythm coming from?)

Sinus Node (e.g., sinus tachycardia)

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