PCT EKG Basics 3

Question 1

Which arrhythmia is characterized by no discernible P waves and an irregularly irregular rhythm?

Accepted Answer

Atrial fibrillation

Answer

Atrial fibrillation produces chaotic atrial activity with no identifiable P waves and a completely irregular ventricular response.

Question 2

A 'sawtooth' baseline pattern on an EKG is characteristic of:

Accepted Answer

Atrial flutter

Answer

Atrial flutter produces a characteristic sawtooth flutter wave pattern at approximately 300 beats per minute.

Question 3

What is the normal duration of the QRS complex?

Accepted Answer

0.06–0.10 seconds

Answer

A normal QRS complex lasts 0.06 to 0.10 seconds; a duration ≥0.12 seconds suggests a bundle branch block or ventricular origin.

Question 4

Peaked, tall T waves in the precordial leads may indicate:

Accepted Answer

Hyperkalemia

Answer

Hyperkalemia (elevated serum potassium) causes tall, narrow, peaked T waves, especially in precordial leads.

Question 5

Which part of the cardiac conduction system delays the impulse between the atria and ventricles?

Accepted Answer

AV node

Answer

The AV node introduces a conduction delay that is reflected as the PR interval on the EKG, allowing atrial contraction before ventricular contraction.

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PCT EKG Basics 3