Represents atrial depolarization and contraction on the EKG.

Represents ventricular depolarization and contraction on the EKG.

Represents ventricular repolarization and relaxation on the EKG.

Represents repolarization of the bundle of His and Purkinje fibers on the EKG.

Time from the beginning of atrial depolarization to the beginning of ventricular depolarization on the EKG.

Time from the beginning of ventricular depolarization to the end of ventricular repolarization on the EKG.

Time from the end of ventricular depolarization to the beginning of ventricular repolarization on the EKG.

Normal rhythms originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node, characterized by one P wave for each QRS interval on the EKG.

Arise from SA node firing irregularities, resulting in slight irregularity in QRS complexes on the EKG.

Dysrhythmia with a heart rate less than 60/min and one P wave preceding each QRS complex on the EKG.

Dysrhythmia with a heart rate greater than 100/min and one P wave preceding each QRS complex on the EKG.

Condition where the SA node fails to fire, significant if accompanied by symptoms or lasting longer than 6 seconds.

Originate from atrial tissue outside the SA node, characterized by absence of P waves on the EKG.

Results in multiple flutter waves for each QRS complex on the EKG, can be treated with medication.

Rapid, disorganized firing of multiple sites within the atrial tissue, increases risk of blood clots.

Triggered early atrial contractions, more than 6 per minute is an abnormal finding on the EKG.

Premature contractions in the ventricles, abnormal if occurring more than 6 per minute on the EKG.

Regular, fast rhythm with large, irregular, wide QRS complexes, can be life-threatening.

Abnormal heart rhythm where the ventricles twitch or quiver, does not produce a pulse.

Complete absence of any waves on the EKG tracing, indicating a need for immediate CPR if the patient is not awake.

External interferences or irregularities in the EKG tracing, must be detected and addressed by the MA.

Irregular spikes related to muscle movement, can be reduced by decreasing patient anxiety and providing warmth.

Regular spikes related to poor grounding or external electricity, can be reduced by proper machine grounding.

Baseline movement associated with breathing or poor electrode connection, causing difficulty in tracing interpretation.

Break in the tracing related to a disconnected or broken lead wire, requires regular cleaning and maintenance of lead wires.

A test that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time using electrodes placed on the skin

A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, often about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome

The graphical representation of the electrical activity of the heart as recorded by an electrocardiogram

Specific pieces of information used to confirm a patient's identity, such as full name and date of birth

Lying flat on the back with the face upward

Pads used to prepare the sites of electrode placement by facilitating conductivity

Unwanted interference or noise on the EKG tracing, often caused by external factors or poor-quality equipment

Heat- and pressure-sensitive paper used to record the electrical activity of the heart in an electrocardiogram

The maximum extent of a vibration or oscillation, measured from the position of equilibrium

The increase in signal power, voltage, or current, usually expressed in decibels

Electrodes placed on the chest to record electrical activity from different parts of the heart

A mark inserted at the beginning of each EKG strip to calibrate the recording, 10 mm high

The format used for recording the 12-lead EKG

Guidelines to follow when operating the EKG

The direction of the R wave in lead I should be positive

The R wave in lead I has a negative deflection if limb leads are not attached correctly

The leads responsible for the R wave in lead I

Caused by heavy breathing or sighing, leading to irregularities in the EKG tracing

Interference caused by improper positioning of the electrocardiograph machine

Fainting or temporary loss of consciousness, which can occur upon rising from the testing position

Shortness of breath, which can be experienced when lying flat by patients with pulmonary disorders

Positioning the patient with the head of the bed elevated to minimize dyspnea during EKG

Computer-based monitoring typically conducted in a hospital setting

EKG devices that perform a self-check to ensure proper functioning

Refers to the speed at which the EKG paper comes out of the machine

A dye used to provide additional information on blood flow within the heart during stress testing

Ambulatory cardiac monitoring, typically conducted in cardiology practice