42118 EKG Part 1

Course overview

Discussion of electrocardiograms (EKG) including the clinical conditions and/or abnormalities that may identified using an EKG; anatomy and physiology of the heart and its conduction system; terminology related to EKG interpretation; components of the electric cardiac cycle, the significance of each, and how each is measured on an EKG strip. The EKG is a valuable tool for healthcare providers, aiding clinicians in diagnosing problems such as cardiac arrhythmias and myocardial infarction. Understanding how to correctly interpret an EKG enables the healthcare provider to respond appropriately, treating dangerous and potentially deadly arrhythmias as quickly and efficiently as possible. Proficiency in EKG interpretation requires a combination of knowledge, skill, as well as clinical experience. Healthcare providers must have a solid understanding of cardiac anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology of EKG abnormalities, and be able to recognize abnormal EKG findings in order to ensure best patient outcomes. This program discusses clinical conditions and/or abnormalities that may be identified with an EKG, cardiac anatomy and physiology, terminology related to EKG interpretation, and measurement and display of cardiac electric cycle components on an EKG strip.