How do you read and interpret an ECG?

When interpreting the heart rhythm, you should look for P waves, which is a sign of atrial excitation. When every P wave is followed by a QRS complex, the ECG shows sinus rhythm. If the P waves are irregular, sinus arrhythmia is likely present.

What is normal ECG interpretation?

Normal intervals Normal range 120 – 200 ms (3 – 5 small squares on ECG paper). QRS duration (measured from first deflection of QRS complex to end of QRS complex at isoelectric line). Normal range up to 120 ms (3 small squares on ECG paper).

What is nonspecific T wave abnormality?

Hyperventilation: Finally, hyperventilation can cause deep, reversible ST segment abnormalities. T wave inversions and T wave flattening are sometimes present for no clear clinical reason, hence are referred to as “non-specific T wave abnormalities.”

What is normal sinus rhythm pulse?

When everything is working smoothly, you have a normal sinus rhythm and your heart beats between 60 and 100 times per minute.

What is an abnormal T wave on an ECG?

T‐wave abnormalities in the setting of non‐ ST ‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes are related to the presence of myocardial edema. High specificity of this ECG alteration identifies a change in ischemic myocardium associated with worse outcomes that is potentially reversible.

What causes an abnormal T wave reading?

Primary T-wave abnormalities (ischemia or injury) are due to alterations in myocardial cellular electrophysiology and secondary T-wave abnormalities (bundle branch block or ventricular Hypertrophy) are subsequent to alterations of sequence of ventricular activation.

Is an abnormal ECG serious?

Sometimes an ECG abnormality is a normal variation of a heart’s rhythm, which does not affect your health. Other times, an abnormal ECG can signal a medical emergency, such as a myocardial infarction /heart attack or a dangerous arrhythmia.