Basic EKG in Emergency Care for Nurse - Training Material

Sep 23, 2026

Uploaded by Callum

This document provides a foundational guide for nurses on performing and interpreting electrocardiograms (EKG) in emergency care settings. Developed by the Department of Emergency Medicine at Ramathibodi Hospital, it covers the fundamental principles of heart conduction, including the roles of the SA node, AV node, and Purkinje fibers. The material details the configuration of 12-lead EKG systems and monitoring strips, explaining how limb and chest leads are used to record electrical activity. Furthermore, the text outlines critical clinical indications for EKG monitoring, such as diagnosing acute myocardial infarction, managing cardiac arrhythmias, addressing cardiac arrest, evaluating electrolyte imbalances, and assessing patients with suspected drug overdose or poisoning. This comprehensive overview is designed to enhance nursing staff's competency in cardiac monitoring and emergency response.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages73

Reading Time3 h 4 min

AccessFree to download

Introduction to EKG

Heart Conduction System

EKG Leads and Monitoring

Clinical Indications for EKG

FAQs

What are the primary electrical pacemakers of the heart?

The heart's electrical activity is driven by the SA node (60–100/min), the AV node (40–60/min), and the ventricle (20–40/min).

What are the main indications for performing an EKG in an emergency?

EKGs are indicated for acute myocardial infarction, dysrhythmias (too fast or too slow), cardiac arrest, electrolyte abnormalities affecting the heart, and drug overdose or toxicity.

What is the difference between limb leads and chest leads in a 12-lead EKG?

12-lead EKGs use a combination of limb leads (placed on arms and legs) and chest leads to provide a comprehensive electrical view of the heart's activity from multiple planes.

Sep 23, 2026

Uploaded by Callum