ECG-interpretatie I: Ritmes

An electrocardiogram or ECG captures and analyzes the heart's electrical activity to assess its function, rhythm, and electrical conduction system.

Each phase of the cardiac cycle is represented by specific waveforms on the display of a cardiac monitor or a strip of ECG graph paper.

Key components of an ECG waveform include the P wave, PR interval, QRS complex, ST segment, T wave, and sometimes a U wave.

The P wave usually is 2.5 mm or less in height and 0.11 seconds or less in duration.

The PR interval fluctuates from 0.12 to 0.20 seconds.

The QRS complex usually lasts less than 0.12 seconds.

The ST segment is usually isoelectric.

The T wave appears as a smooth, positive deflection. The QT interval varies with heart rate.

A one-minute rhythm strip contains 300 large and 1500 small boxes.

Count the small boxes within an RR interval and divide 1500 by that number to determine heart rate with a regular rhythm.