Latest posts
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High-Yield Arrhythmia Recognition Part 2: Master Wide QRS Patterns
A normal QRS complex measures less than 0.12 seconds (120 ms), representing rapid ventricular depolarization via the specialized His-Purkinje system. When a QRS complex widens beyond 0.12 seconds, it signals delayed or aberrant ventricular conduction—either because the impulse originates within the ventricles or because the normal conduction pathway is obstructed. Here are the 5 high-yield…
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High-Yield Arrhythmia Recognition Part 1: The Missing P Wave (A – Fib, A -Flutter, Junctional, and Hyperkalemia)
When examining a 12-lead EKG or telemetry strip, the presence of a P wave represents organized atrial depolarization driven by the Sinoatrial (SA) node. When the P wave is absent, it signals a fundamental breakdown in upper chamber pacemaking or conduction. For board exams and bedside acute care, recognizing a missing P wave requires immediate…