Introduction

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Basics»

Author(s)	J.S.S.G. de Jong, MD
Moderator	J.S.S.G. de Jong, MD
Supervisor
some notes about authorship

A short ECG registration of normal heart rhythm (sinus rhythm)

The aim of this course is to understand and recognize the normal ECG and to be able to interprete abnormalities. The course is divided in two different sections. First the basics will be presented. This is followed by the interpretation of the normal ECG according to the 7+2 step plan:

7+2 step plan

• Step 1: Rhythm
• Step 2: Rate
• Step 3: Conduction (PQ,QRS,QT)
• Step 4: Heart axis
• Step 5: P wave morphology
• Step 6: QRS morphology
• Step 7: ST morphology
• Step 7+1: Compare the current ECG with a previous one
• Step 7+2: Conclusion

Note: It is important to realize that not all of these steps may be applicable when you encounter ECG abnormalities. If for example the rhythm is not sinus in the first step, the algorithm to analyze dysrhythmias should be followed. If a Left Bundle Branch Block is present in step 3, ST morphology will be strongly influenced by this defect.

Finally the real world is presented through practice ECGs.

If you have finished the course you are invited to come back to read more about abnormal ECGs in the ECG textbook.

ECG textbook

• Normal Tracing
• A Concise History of the ECG
• Technical Problems
• Sinus Rhythms
  • sinus tachycardia
  • sinus bradycardia
• Arrhythmias:
  • supraventricular
  • junctional
  • ventricular
  • genetic
  • ectopic beats
• AV Conduction
• Intraventricular Conduction
• Myocardial Infarction
• QRS Axis and Voltage
• Chamber Hypertrophy
• Repolarization
• Clinical Disorders
• Electrolyte Disorders
• Pacemaker
• ECGs in Athletes
• ECGs in Children
• Accuracy of Computer Interpretation

Also read our Frequently Asked Questions section.