ECG Basics
What does the P wave represent?
Atrial depolarization
What is the normal HR for NSR?
60-100bpm
What rhythm has no visible P wave and is irregularly irregular?
A fib
What dysrhythmia is considered cardiac arrest?
V Fib
What device automatically detects and shocks lethal rhythms?
implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
What does the QRS complex represent?
Ventricular depolarization
What rhythm is irregular but related to breathing and often normal?
Sinus arrhythmia
What is the biggest complication of A Fib?
Stroke
What are the ECG characteristics of V tach?
Wide, bizarre QRS with absent P waves
Pacemaker
What is the normal PR interval?
0.12-0.20 seconds
What is the HR in sinus tachycardia?
>100
What medication is given rapid IVP for PSVT and may cause asystole?
Adenosine
How is pulseless ventricular tachycardia treated?
CPR and defib
What procedure destroys an ectopic focus causing dysrhythmias?
Catheter ablation
What does the T wave represent?
Ventricular repolarization
What is the first action when treating sinus tachycardia?
Treat the underlying cause
What nonpharmacologic maneuver can help stop PSVT?
What is the difference between defib and cardioversion?
Defib is unsynchronized and cardioversion is synchronized with QRS
What are the top nursing priorities for life threatening dysrhythmias?
ABCs and continuous tele
What is the correct order for rhythm interpretation?
Rate, rhythm, P wave, PR interval, QRS width, name the rhythm
What medication is given for symptomatic sinus bradycardia?
Atropine
What procedure is used if a patient with SVT or A Fib id unstable?
Synchronized carioversion
What is the most common cause of sudden cardiac death?
V fib
What is the key rule when responding to a dysrhythmia?
Treat the patient, not the monitor