HELP PSE!! How to read ECG

Editorial Team / Admin · Jul 3, 2010

I googled "how to read ecg" and got the following, from which you may pick and choose (videos or online or ceus etc):

http://www.google.com/#hl=en&source=hp&q=how+to+read+ecg&aq=f&aqi=g10&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=C0oqORXMvTMWNNaCYNOXTzbsIAAAAqgQFT9Ccun8&fp=4cb5f508e49085f6

Remember, skill comes with time and application (practice!). :)

anonymurse · Jul 3, 2010

Do you need to read strips or read 12-leads?

If you want to read strips, you can take the AHA strip reading course for $50.

Go to http://www.onlineaha.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=main.courseCatalog

It's the "Learn: Adult Rhythm" course. Pretty good from what I understand, and you get a course completion certificate.

After you nail the basics, you can simply Google to figure out oddball strips. I had a pt who alternated tachycardia with bradycardia. I Googled "tachycardia bradycardia" and came up with "Tachycardia Bradycardia Syndrome." Another time I had some wide-complex thing I couldn't name, so I Googled "wide complex strip" and found out what it was.

If you need to read 12-leads, you probably need a book. You can go to Amazon, search on EKG, and read the reviews to find the book that'll best suit your learning style.

I just ordered one. I doubt it'll be the last one I ever buy.

nursej22, MSN, RN · Jul 6, 2010

I usually glance at the interpretation at the top, and then look for proof-- ie LVH, non-specific t waves, Afib, etc. then I look at the axis, and again proof (Lead I/aVF "right together, left apart...). If there is an arrhythmia i look at the long readouts at the bottom to identify the rhythm.

Then I usually start at V1 looking for RBBB, LBBB, st changes throughout the precordial leads and then move onto the inferior leads.

angelkatkat · Aug 13, 2010

look for http://www.youtube.com for basic tutorials....

tweety001 · Sep 9, 2010

Maybe this could help!

ownload ECG-Tracing.exe for free on uploading.com

casi, ASN, RN · Sep 10, 2010

Normally I start by looking at lead II. It tends to have the prettiest picture. You have to make sure to look at all leads for changes though.

pghfoxfan · Sep 11, 2010

I absolutely agree with looking at lead II first when you are learing how to read EKGs. You have to know the basics, before moving on to 12 leads interpretations. Once you understand and can recognize basic EKGs, then move on to the other leads.