EKG Terms and Definitions

Study Notes

EKG Terms and Definitions

P wave: Represents atrial depolarization, the initial electrical activity in the heart that triggers atrial contraction.
Q wave (of QRS complex): Indicates depolarization of the interventricular septum, crucial for proper ventricular functioning.
R wave (of QRS complex): Represents ventricular depolarization. This wave reflects the main electrical stimulus that passes through thick ventricular walls, requiring higher voltage.
S wave (of QRS complex): Signifies depolarization of the Purkinje fibers, which are essential for coordinated ventricular contraction.
T wave: Represents ventricular repolarization, signaling the end of electrical activity in the ventricles, and marks the initiation of ventricular diastole, where refilling occurs.
QT interval: Duration of ventricular contraction, encompassing both depolarization and repolarization phases in the ventricular cycle.
ST segment: A flat line between the end of the QRS complex and the beginning of the T wave. Key for assessing myocardial ischemia and necrosis when deviations occur.
EKG (Electrocardiogram): A graphical representation of the sequence of electrical conduction through the heart muscles, indicating cardiac activity.
QRS complex: Represents the combined electrical activity during ventricular depolarization and indicates silent atrial repolarization occurring simultaneously.
PR interval: Duration of 0.18 seconds, measured from the beginning of the P wave to the beginning of the QRS complex, reflecting the time taken for electrical impulses to travel from the atria to the ventricles.

Description

Test your knowledge of EKG terminology with this quiz focused on key terms like P wave, QRS complex, and T wave. Understanding these terms is crucial for anyone studying cardiovascular physiology and rhythm analysis. Dive into the world of electrocardiograms and enhance your cardiac knowledge.