any EKG reading tips?

[RNin2007]

We are learning to interpret EKG readings, and I was wondering if anyone had any tips to share. Also, if you have a way of memorzing the intervals (i.e. P wave = 0.06 - 0.12 seconds)...that would be a huge help! I do understand that depolarization = systole (P/atrium, QRS/Ventricle) and repolarization = diastole (found that explanation in the allnurse archives...) Any other suggestions other than buying a book...don't have time for that b/c test is only 10 days away...

Thanks so much!

~J

[crb613, BSN, RN]

Daytonite & Vicky RN.....Thanks for all the info & explaining this!! I have had two cardiac lectures so far, we start ekg's & the electrical part this week. I am a little suprised because I understand it all so far.......everyone in my class is freaking out...I hope I don't join them when I get to this upcoming lecture! I had a really great A&P instructor that taught me everything we have covered so far....Please stand by for a 911 just in case! :uhoh21:

[Daytonite, BSN, RN]

I am a little suprised because I understand it all so far.......everyone in my class is freaking out...I hope I don't join them when I get to this upcoming lecture!....Please stand by for a 911 just in case! :uhoh21:

Freaking out? I predict you'll ace the test on cardiac!

[phosophorus]

the way I remember the values:

PR .12-.20 (you travel to Puerto Rico around the ages of 12-20)

QRS .04-.10 (when you're around 4-10yr old you learn the alphabet song. QRS...)

QT, it makes sense looking at it. The T wave comes pretty fast, so it should be less than half the next beat (R-R interval)

[billyhurd]

I've been trying to understand EKG's better lately and I have found the following sources very useful:

Online ECG Simulator - Generates lots of different ECGs. Free demo and a free trial download also available.

The ECG Blog - Discusses and interprets interesting ECGs from actual patients.

The ECG Learning Center - Great resource for learning all bout ECGs.

I hope these are helpful.