The Role of Rhythm Strips for Interpreting EKGs
Each time the heart beats it emits electrical currents. An
electrocardiogram (EKG) is a method in which electrodes are
attached at various points on the body. These electrodes are
attached to wires that are attached to the EKG machine. The
electrodes send waves and impulses to the machine that amplifies
the results on a monitor and prints them onto graph paper. Heart
rates and palpitations are commonly diagnosed from the EKG
results.
Heart rhythm can help to detect medical problems. Arrhythmia,
heart valve disease, coronary artery disease and impending heart
attacks can be determined by interpreting EKG rhythms. If an
abnormality is detected, the technician or physician may request
a follow-up EKG or other additional testing. Since some
abnormalities may be caused by external or non-problematic
internal factors, the EKG rhythm is not always the end-all to
cardiovascular testing.
The technician will begin the EKG by placing 10 to 12 electrodes
at various points on your body. The electrodes are placed from
your lower breastbone to areas near the armpits. Other pads will
be placed on each of your arms and legs. The electrodes are
attached to wires, called leads, which are attached to the EKG
machine.
The use of EKG rhythm strips is an additional way for
interpreting results. Although the rhythm strip is only one
point-of-view, it is often a more precise way to detect
problems. Rhythm strips are particularly useful in patients who
have reported very slow or very rapid heartbeats. Most EKGs take
only 10 minutes or so to complete, however, when an EKG rhythm
strip is used, the visit may be prolonged. EKG rhythm strips are
generally used when the normal EKG does not produce desired
results. The EKG strip can be used to measure your heart's
patterns for a full minute or even longer.
For new students learning about the EKG process and EKG rhythms,
the information can be overwhelming. Most schools do not spend
an enormous amount of time covering the topics of rhythms but
hospitals do require specialized classes in this area. An EKG
technician will begin by understanding some basic rhythms and
what is considered normal. As he or she gains experience and
takes specialized courses, he or she will gain expertise in
interpreting EKG rhythms and reading rhythm strips. An
inexperienced technician will be unlikely to disclose the
results of your EKG. Your cardiovascular specialist will look at
and interpret your results and inform you as to whether or not
your condition needs further evaluation.