Title: Identify ECG recordings and abnormal rhythms.
Course: Patient Care Technician (14051-III) > Section: Understanding the Role of the Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Identification should include

- ongoing monitoring of a patient/client
- capturing and recording ECG tracings
- identifying and measuring waveform characteristics (e.g., P waves, T waves, QRS complexes)
- recognizing atrial and ventricular abnormalities (e.g., premature ventricular contraction [PVC], premature atrial contraction [PAC])
- distinguishing regular and irregular rhythms
- recognizing cardiac rhythm classifications and rates
  - sinus
  - atrial
  - ventricular
  - asystole
- initiating response to life threatening arrhythmias per facility policy
- monitoring patient/client vital signs and tolerance during testing
- preparing the report for the appropriate healthcare team member
- transmitting the report to the patient’s EMR/EHR or chart
- identifying the disease processes affecting ECG rhythms.

Process/Skill Questions:

- How would one identify the signs and symptoms of cardiopulmonary compromise?
- What are the components of an ECG?
- What is an artifact?
- What is meant by a 5-lead ECG?
- What is the difference between a P wave and QRS complex?
- What causes an arrhythmia?
- What variances in waves are present with ischemia?
- Why is a baseline reading important?
- What are two life-threatening arrhythmias and their treatments?