Rhythm Analysis Flashcards

What is the normal heart rate range for adults at rest?

Answer: 60-100 beats per minute

Normal resting heart rate for adults is 60-100 bpm. Below 60 is bradycardia and above 100 is tachycardia.

What defines ventricular tachycardia on an ECG?

Answer: Wide QRS complexes at a rate greater than 100 bpm

Ventricular tachycardia presents with wide QRS complexes (>0.12 sec) at a rate exceeding 100 bpm, originating from the ventricles rather than the normal conduction system.

What is first-degree AV block characterized by?

Answer: PR interval greater than 0.20 seconds with all P waves conducted

First-degree AV block shows a prolonged PR interval (>0.20 sec) but every P wave is followed by a QRS complex — conduction is delayed but not blocked.

How do you calculate heart rate from an ECG strip using the 300 method?

Answer: Divide 300 by the number of large boxes between two R waves

The 300 method divides 300 by the number of large boxes between consecutive R waves (R-R interval) to estimate heart rate quickly.

What rhythm shows a saw-tooth pattern on the ECG?

Answer: Atrial flutter

Atrial flutter produces characteristic saw-tooth flutter waves (F waves), typically at a rate of 300 bpm, most visible in leads II, III, aVF, and V1.

What is the treatment for pulseless ventricular fibrillation?

Answer: Immediate defibrillation

Pulseless ventricular fibrillation requires immediate defibrillation as the primary intervention, along with CPR and ACLS medications per protocol.