Quote:
Originally Posted by PedOncoDoc
3rd degree heart block has consistent intervals between p waves and between QRS complexes that are independent from each other, hence the recommendation to get out the calipers. When taking exams on which I had to analyze rhythms I would take a piece of paper and place a mark above 2 consecutive p waves and move from p-wave pair to p-wave pair to see if they were consistent, and would do the same for the QRS complexes.
I would've preferred to see a longer rhythm strip in conjunction with the 12-lead to firm up this diagnosis - sometimes the switch from lead to lead on the printout can make identifying 3rd degree block more difficult than it should be.
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Yeah, Sdiver and I had this chat on another forum.
I may have jumped the gun a bit. However, with a longer strip it would be easier. I have been looking at my pts EKG strips with renewed vigor, however.
I use paper strips also, if... I have the time. Most of the time I'm on my way to a cath lab with the obvious stuff and we try to work in the extra credit when we can.
This was a great example of slow down and do it like we are SUPPOSED to.
