VETM 529 ECG Interpretation Principles
36 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a ventricular premature depolarization (VPD)?

  • A wide and bizarre QRS complex
  • A narrow QRS complex (correct)
  • Premature occurrence compared to the next expected sinus beat
  • No related P wave

What indicates that a premature beat originates in the ventricle?

  • A narrow QRS complex
  • The presence of a P wave
  • A regular rhythm
  • A wide and bizarre QRS complex (correct)

What is the difference between a ventricular couplet and a ventricular triplet?

  • A couplet is a PVC following a normal beat, while a triplet is a PVC following a premature beat
  • A couplet is two consecutive premature beats, while a triplet is three consecutive premature beats (correct)
  • A couplet is a PVC occurring during the T wave of the preceding beat, while a triplet is a PVC occurring during the QRS of the preceding beat
  • A couplet is a single premature beat, while a triplet is two consecutive premature beats

How does the R-on-T phenomenon occur?

<p>The QRS complex of the VPD occurs early enough to land on the T wave of the preceding beat (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the slow depolarization during a VPD?

<p>It results in an elongated QRS complex (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum QRS duration allowed in a dog before being considered a wide QRS complex?

<p>0.06 seconds (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates a uniform VPC from a multiform VPC?

<p>A uniform VPC is a PVC that has a consistent morphology, while a multiform VPC has varying morphologies (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term is widely used for ventricular premature depolarizations in human medicine?

<p>Ventricular premature complexes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of ventricular premature depolarizations?

<p>Abnormal impulses arising from ventricular tissue (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do VPCs relate to ventricular tachycardia?

<p>VPCs can lead to more serious heart conditions, including ventricular tachycardia. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the heart rate in beats per minute (bpm) of a dog with ventricular flutter?

<p>315 bpm (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical ECG characteristic of ventricular tachycardia progressing to ventricular flutter?

<p>Absence of a &quot;shelf&quot; between ventricular beats (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the treatment for ventricular fibrillation?

<p>Transthoracic shock (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of a first-degree AV block?

<p>Prolonged PR interval (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main clinical implication of a first-degree AV block?

<p>It is often benign and doesn't cause clinical signs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the condition that manifests as "fast V-tach with “sine wave” morphology"?

<p>Ventricular flutter (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential consequence of sustained ventricular tachycardia?

<p>Congestive heart failure (CHF) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions can lead to weakness or syncope in a dog?

<p>Severe underlying heart disease with a very rapid rate (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition is likely to increase the risk for ventricular fibrillation?

<p>Ventricular premature depolarizations (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a potential cause of ventricular premature complexes (VPCs)?

<p>Bradycardia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When should treatment for ventricular premature complexes be considered?

<p>Evidence of hemodynamic compromise (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which heart rate is indicative of ventricular tachycardia in dogs?

<p>160 bpm (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of the ECG in ventricular tachycardia?

<p>Wide and bizarre QRS complexes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of longer-term ECG monitoring in cases of ventricular premature complexes?

<p>To evaluate for occult complexity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors does NOT contribute to the development of ventricular premature complexes?

<p>High cholesterol (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which ECG finding indicates R-on-T phenomenon?

<p>A specific premature ventricular contraction occurring on a T wave (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the QRS duration typical of normal heart function?

<p>&lt; 0.06 sec (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary clinical significance of a rapid rhythm originating from the ventricles?

<p>It can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical paper speed for electrocardiograms (ECG) in veterinary medicine?

<p>25 mm/sec (A), 50 mm/sec (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Given the information provided, what is the most likely diagnosis for the ECG shown depicting a 6-month-old German Shepherd dog?

<p>Ventricular premature depolarizations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step in a systematic approach to ECG interpretation?

<p>Assess the morphology of the T-wave (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of being able to determine if a rhythm is controlled by the sinus node?

<p>Assessing the electrical conduction pathway within the heart (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of observing QRS complex morphology in arrhythmia diagnosis?

<p>Distinguishing between atrial and ventricular arrhythmias (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a criteria of normal sinus rhythm?

<p>Absence of any premature contractions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can you determine the origin of a premature beat on an ECG?

<p>By the shape and width of the QRS complex (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common approach to determining heart rate when analyzing an ECG?

<p>Counting the number of QRS complexes in a 6-second strip and multiplying by 10 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Systematic approach to ECG interpretation

A systematic approach to ECG interpretation involves a series of steps to analyze the rhythm and identify any abnormalities.

Paper speed

The speed at which the ECG paper moves through the machine, measured in millimeters per second. Common speeds are 25 mm/sec and 50 mm/sec.

Heart rate

The number of heartbeats occurring in one minute. It is measured by counting the number of QRS complexes in a given time and multiplying by 60.

Sinus rhythm

A normal heartbeat initiated by the sinoatrial (SA) node, the natural pacemaker of the heart.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Cardiac arrhythmia

Any deviation from the normal sinus rhythm.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Normal sinus rhythm criteria

ECG criteria for a normal sinus rhythm include: regular rhythm, P wave before every QRS, normal PR interval, normal QRS duration, and normal QT interval.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular premature depolarization/complex (VPC)

Premature beats originating from the ventricles, appearing as widened and distorted QRS complexes. They are often associated with underlying heart disease.

Signup and view all the flashcards

QRS complex appearance and arrhythmia origin

Assessing the QRS complex helps determine the origin of the arrhythmia. Supraventricular arrhythmias have narrower QRS complexes, while ventricular arrhythmias have wider QRS complexes. This reflects the electrical pathway the impulse takes.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Flutter

A dangerous heart rhythm where the ventricles beat very quickly (over 250 beats per minute in dogs) leading to weakness, fainting, and potential heart failure.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Fibrillation

A severely fast and irregular heartbeat that can be fatal if untreated.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Atrioventricular (AV) Block

Slowed or blocked electrical signals from the atria to the ventricles. This can occur within the AV node or His bundle.

Signup and view all the flashcards

First-Degree AV Block

The first stage of AV block. The PR interval on the ECG is prolonged, but the heartbeat is otherwise normal.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Tachycardia

A rapid and regular heartbeat originating from the ventricles. It can progress to ventricular flutter.

Signup and view all the flashcards

AV conduction disturbance

A heart rhythm where the timing of the signal from the atria to the ventricles is disrupted.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia

A condition where the heart rate slows down during inhalation and speeds up during exhalation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Atenolol

This is a drug used to treat high blood pressure.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Premature Depolarizations (VPDs)

Abnormal heartbeats originating from the ventricle. They are characterized by a wide and bizarre QRS complex, absence of a related P wave, and a premature occurrence.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Premature Complexes (VPCs)

Another term for Ventricular Premature Depolarizations (VPDs). Often used in human medicine.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Couplets and Triplets

VPCs can occur in a sequence of two, called a couplet, or three, called a triplet.

Signup and view all the flashcards

R-on-T Phenomenon

The QRS complex of a VPC occurring so early it lands on the T wave of the preceding beat, potentially increasing the risk of more serious arrhythmias.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Why are VPCs 'wide and bizarre'?

Ventricular depolarization starts in the ventricle and doesn't utilize the specialized conduction system, making the process slow.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Typical QRS Duration of VPCs

Usually greater than 0.06 seconds in dogs and 0.04 seconds in cats. This is due to the slow depolarization in the ventricles.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Absence of P Wave in VPCs

Not related to the sinus beat, as the impulse originates from the ventricles.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Premature Nature of VPCs

Occurring earlier than the next expected sinus beat.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Uniform and Multiform VPCs

VPCs can have the same morphology (uniform) or different appearances (multiform).

Signup and view all the flashcards

VPCs as Precursors to Serious Arrhythmias

Building blocks for more severe ventricular arrhythmias like ventricular tachycardia.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Premature Complex (VPC)

A premature heartbeat originating from the ventricles of the heart. Can be a sign of serious heart disease.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Tachycardia (V-tach)

A rapid heart rhythm originating in the ventricles. Characterized by a heart rate over 160 bpm in dogs, 200 bpm in cats, and 40 bpm in horses.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Tachycardia (V-tach)

A series of at least four Ventricular Premature Complexes (VPCs) occurring in a row, with a heart rate greater than 160 bpm in dogs.

Signup and view all the flashcards

R-on-T

An ECG waveform that occurs when a premature ventricular complex (PVC) occurs during the vulnerable period of repolarization (T wave). This can trigger a potentially fatal heart rhythm.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Fibrillation (V-fib)

A common cause of ventricular fibrillation. It's characterized by rapid, irregular heart contractions that are ineffective at pumping blood.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Tachycardia (V-tach)

A complex of ECG features that can signify a heart problem. These features include widely spaced QRS complexes, lack of associated P waves, and a regular or irregular rhythm.

Signup and view all the flashcards

QRS Duration

The time it takes for electricity to travel through the ventricles, as measured on an ECG.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Tachycardia (V-tach)

Ventricular Tachycardia (V-tach) is a serious heart rhythm that can be life-threatening. It requires immediate medical attention.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ventricular Tachycardia (V-tach)

These are heart rhythm problems that can occur in animals, often dogs, and can be caused by various medical conditions.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Principles of Electrocardiography

  • VETM 529, Cardiovascular, Respiratory & Hemolymph Systems II
  • Approach to arrhythmia diagnosis (continued)
  • ECG interpretation steps: systematic, note lead and paper speed settings, determine heart rate, check for underlying sinus rhythm, describe/name any rhythm abnormality if sinus rhythm is absent.

Learning Objectives

  • List and discuss the steps in ECG interpretation
  • Determine heart rate (with and without a Bic pen) and whether the rhythm is sinus from an ECG.
  • Define cardiac arrhythmia and normal sinus rhythm.
  • Identify ECG criteria of a normal sinus rhythm.
  • Determine whether rhythm is controlled by the sinus node in lead II electrocardiogram.
  • Contrast QRS complex appearance in patients with supraventricular versus ventricular arrhythmias.
  • Describe electrocardiographic criteria and associated conditions/diseases for specific arrhythmias.

General Approach to ECG Interpretation

  • Be systematic
  • Note lead and paper speed settings (25 mm/sec, 50 mm/sec are common)
  • Determine heart rate
  • Assess for underlying sinus rhythm
  • If not sinus rhythm: describe and name the rhythm abnormality.

Ventricular Premature Depolarizations/Complexes

  • Abnormal impulses from ventricular tissue

  • How to determine ventricular origin of abnormal beats: ECG characteristics

    • Premature (earlier than the next sinus beat)
    • No related P wave
    • "Wide and bizarre" QRS
    • QRS duration > 0.06 seconds (dog) or > 0.04 seconds (cat)

  • Abnormal beats can be single, in pairs (couplets) or threes (triplets)

  • Different morphologies

  • "R-on-T" phenomenon: QRS of VPC occurs early enough to land on T wave of preceding beat (increases risk of ventricular fibrillation)

  • Potential causes of VPCs/tachyarrhythmias

    • Heart disease
    • Electrolyte imbalances (hyper/hypokalemia, etc.)
    • Pain, stress, or certain drugs.
    • Splenic disease, sepsis, systemic inflammation

Ventricular Tachycardia (V-tach)

  • Rapid rhythm originating in ventricles.

  • 4 or more VPCs in a row, at a rate of >160 bpm (dogs), >200 bpm (cats), >40 bpm (horses)

  • ECG characteristics

    • QRS "wide and bizarre"
    • No associated P waves.
    • Rhythm is usually regular.
    • May be uniform or multiform.

  • This is a VERY dangerous rhythm!

    • Severe underlying heart disease or very rapid rate can cause weakness or syncope (fainting).
    • If sustained, it can lead to congestive heart failure (CHF).

Ventricular Flutter

  • Fast V-tach with "sine wave" morphology.
  • No isoelectric "shelf" between ventricular beats.

Ventricular Fibrillation

  • Fatally dangerous if untreated.
  • Should always be treated with transthoracic shock.

Atrioventricular (AV) Block

  • Slowed or blocked conduction between atria and ventricles.
  • ECG characteristics and clinical implications depend on the severity/degree of block—first-degree, second-degree (Mobitz type I, II), third-degree

1st-degree AV Block

  • Prolonged PR interval (>normal).
  • Never causes clinical signs, and doesn't disrupt rhythm.
  • Benign rhythm associated with high vagal tone or medications that slow AV nodal conduction.

2nd-degree AV Block (Mobitz type I)

  • Progressive increase in PR interval until a block occurs.

2nd-degree AV Block (Mobitz type II)

  • No change in PR interval prior to the block; associated with more serious structural heart problems.

2nd-degree AV block in Horses

  • Extremely common form of AV block.

3rd-degree AV Block

  • Complete dissociation of atria and ventricles.
  • No conducted atrial activity.
  • Atrial depolarizations (P-waves) and ventricular depolarizations (QRS complexes) do not correlate.
  • Always pathologic, and commonly requires pacemaker implantation.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Related Documents

Principles Of Electrocardiography VETM 5291 PDF 2025

Description

Test your understanding of ECG interpretation principles essential for identifying arrhythmias in the cardiovascular system. This quiz covers systematic approaches to ECG analysis, heart rate determination, and differentiation between sinus rhythm and various arrhythmias. Perfect for students in VETM 529!

More Like This

Cardiac Arrhythmias Overview
10 questions

Cardiac Arrhythmias Overview

SalutaryPentagon avatar
SalutaryPentagon
Sinus Dysrhytmias
18 questions

Sinus Dysrhytmias

VividSodalite1917 avatar
VividSodalite1917
Heart Conduction and ECG Basics
25 questions

Heart Conduction and ECG Basics

WellIntentionedFortWorth avatar
WellIntentionedFortWorth
HARD QUIZ ARRHYTHMIAS AND ANTIARRHYTHMIC DRUGS
25 questions

HARD QUIZ ARRHYTHMIAS AND ANTIARRHYTHMIC DRUGS

.keeks. avatar
.keeks.
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Open
Browser
Browser