PSIO 532 Study Guide - Midterm Guide: Stroke, Electrocardiography, Sinoatrial Node
Graduate Physiology PSL
Electrocardiography (ECG)
➔ Definition: The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a graphic recording of the electrical activity of
the heart
Why is ECG important?
• It is one of the most important laboratory test to diagnose heart diseases in particular
myocardial infarction Key arkers for a heart attak
• It is fundamental to diagnose cardiac arrhythmias
• It is extremely helpful to diagnose noncardiac disorders: thyroid and pulmonary diseases
cerebrovascular accident, electrolyte imbalances
• Can help to detect abnormalities produced by cardiac/non-cardiac drugs; make sure the
drug is doing its job or if there are any adverse effects caused by the drug
• Essential in assessing the function/malfunction of cardiac pacemakers
• Modified forms of ECG:
- Holter (ambulatory ECG monitor)
- Stress Test (exercise ECG)
- Continuous ECG monitoring (Used in ambulances, emergency rooms, ICU,
cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology labs, MRI, during surgeries
(human and animal), and in post-operative recovery rooms, etc.)
Philosophy of ECG Analysis
Always take into account clinical information:
▪ Age
▪ Sex
▪ Body build (height/weight)
▪ Medical History
- Any type of heart disease including myocardial infarction, hypertension
- Non-cardiac conditions
- Medications
➔ Never over-read an ECG: a normal ECG does not necessarily indicate a normal heart or
vice versa
➔ Always compare ECG tracing with previous tracings; compare ECGs over time
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