"If you don't pass the exam you're fired"

[OnlybyHisgraceRN, ASN, RN]

I'm a new grad RN in an CVICU internship. We have to pass an EKG exam or we will be fired. Needless to say, my anxiety level is up.

I took a practice exam and bombed it. Missed points for putting SVT instead of supraventricular tachycardia.

Some of them I really missed and need to review.

I know this test is crucial, not only to keep my job but I truly need to know my stuff to be a competent CVICU nurse.

I asked for help from the nurse educator to review my answers- received no help, so back at square one.

Will keep you all posted. Will be testing next week.

[gonzo1, ASN, RN]

Practice you EKGs on Skillstat.com. You will love this site

[yuzzamatuzz]

I agree with gonzo1 about skillstat, it's an excellent tool to learn EKGs. Just practice A LOT. The more you do it, the better you will get. And don't get bought up in the little details (that's a cardiologists job). I think that's what most people get caught up on: measuring and counting the strip but not seeing the bigger picture. It is important that you can measure the strip and know what is normal, but you also should be able to identify a rhythm just by glancing at it. Luckily your test is a week away. That's plenty of time to practice, practice, practice. It's a lot of work but you'll be glad you have this skill when you're done. Good luck.

[netglow, ASN, RN]

Get this app: Instant ECG. It not only gives an explanation of each rhythm, but gives stats, and you can run a live moving electronic ECG strip video.

There are also a few books out there.

[nurse2033, MSN, RN]

Do you know any paramedics? They will be able to help you. Good luck.

[OnlybyHisgraceRN, ASN, RN]

Thanks so much everyone. About to try that website.

[demylenated, BSN, RN]

http://www.skillstat.com/tools/ecg-simulator

Good luck. There is another webpage that is great, but it is on my other computer. I'll try and get it for you.