ECG Principles: An Overview

Course overview

The 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is an essential diagnostic tool that provides a window into the electrical conduction of the heart. It can provide helpful, and even vital, information in a wide range of situations, such as detecting arrhythmias or cardiac abnormalities. ECGs are primarily utilized by healthcare providers (HCPs) to screen and assess for cardiac irregularities. It is important for HCPs to understand the concepts of cardiac electrical activation and the principles of ECG interpretation. Unfortunately, some HCPs have misinterpreted ECGs due to a lack of necessary skills needed to interpret an ECG (24%), or a lack of medical knowledge (16%) (Berndt et al., 2020). The misinterpretation of ECGs has led to misdiagnoses and potential delays in necessary medical treatment. It is important for HCPs to understand how to interpret ECG rhythm strips to correctly diagnose the patient and provide prompt, necessary treatment.