The Basics of Basic 12 Lead EKG
Welcome to the most basic of 12 Lead EKG Interpretation classes available! This class will not teach you how to diagnose an MI using a 12-Lead EKG, but you will help you understand what to look for and how to report your findings to Medical Control.
But why are we doing a 12 Lead? (click to see)
Objectives
- Identify the following; Isoelectric line, P,Q,R,S,T waves, J Point, S-T Segment.
- Identify proper placement of 12 Lead EKG electrodes.
- Measure, using lines printed on EKG paper, line deflection in the S-T Segment.
- Define the following terms; S-T elevation, S-T depression, reciprocal changes
- Describe the procedure for reporting EKG changes to Medical Control.
Part One: Basic Rhythms
Isoelectric Line: Also known as the "base line" it is best determined by drawing a line between the end of T and beginning of the P wave. We will use this line as a reference point to measure S-T segment deviation or deflection later in the course.
P,Q,R,S,T waves: If you don't know what these things are, you probably shouldn't be looking at this!
S-T Segment: You should already know that this is the line between the end of the S wave and the beginning of the T wave.
J Point: No, this is not the area of roadway where you make one of those fancy turns. The J point is the point we will use to measure S-T segment changes. To determine the J point, find where the S wave makes its right-hand turn toward the T wave. That right turn is the J point.
What do you know?
The isoelectric line is the base line of the EKG. It is best seen by using the line between the end of a T wave and the beginning of the P wave of the next complex.