According to the European Resuscitation Council (ERC) guidelines, the management of cardiac arrest involves identifying the cardiac rhythm to determine whether defibrillation (shock) is indicated. Rhythms are classified as either shockable or non-shockable. Shockable Rhythms 1. Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)2. Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) Non-Shockable Rhythms 1. Asystole2. Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA) Shockable Rhythms 1. Ventricular […]
Category: ECG
Pacing 💓
Pacing: An Overview Pacing is a treatment method used to manage various types of heart blocks and other cardiac arrhythmias by using a pacemaker to deliver electrical impulses to the heart. This ensures that the heart maintains an adequate rate and rhythm. Pacing can be temporary or permanent, depending on the patient’s condition. Types of […]
Cardioversion❤️🔥 vs Defibrillation ⚡️
Both cardioversion and defibrillation are medical procedures used to correct abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). However, they are utilised in different clinical situations and employ different techniques. Cardioversion Cardioversion is used to restore a normal heart rhythm in patients with certain types of arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation (AF), atrial flutter, and some types of supraventricular […]
Ectopic Beats
Ectopic beats are early or extra heartbeats originating from the atria (atrial ectopic beats) or the ventricles (ventricular ectopic beats). They are common and usually benign, but frequent ectopic beats can be associated with underlying heart conditions and can lead to more significant arrhythmias. Types of Ectopic Beats Causes Diagnosis Management Prevention and Monitoring
Supra-ventricular tachycardia (SVT)
Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) refers to a set of heart rhythm disorders characterised by an abnormally fast heart rate originating from the atria or other structures above the ventricles. In SVT, the heart rate typically exceeds 100 beats per minute and may reach 150-250 beats per minute. Pathophysiology – Normally impulse travels in one direction i.e […]
Atrial fibrillation (Afib)
Atrial fibrillation (often abbreviated as Afib or AF) is a common type of cardiac arrhythmia, characterised by disorganised electrical activity in the atria leading to ineffective atrial contraction and an irregular, often rapid, ventricular response. This condition can significantly impact cardiac function and increase the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular complications Pathophysiology The pathophysiology […]
Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter is a type of supra-ventricular tachycardia characterised by a rapid, regular heartbeat originating from the atria. This condition is often associated with a “sawtooth” pattern on an electrocardiogram (ECG), indicating the rapid and organised nature of atrial electrical activity. Understanding the pathophysiology, causes, symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options for atrial flutter is […]
Cardiac Action Potential
The cardiac action potential is a sequence of electrical events that occur in the heart muscle cells (myocytes) to trigger their contraction. These action potentials are essential for the proper functioning of the heart, ensuring coordinated and rhythmic contractions. The action potential in cardiac cells is typically divided into five phases (0-4). Phases of the […]
Coronary 🫀Circulation
The coronary arteries are responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle (myocardium). They originate from the base of the aorta and branch out to cover the surface of the heart. Major Coronary Arteries Coronary Veins The coronary veins are responsible for draining deoxygenated blood from the myocardium and returning it to the right […]
Factors confirm Sinus Rhythm
Sinus rhythm is the normal regular rhythm of the heart where the electrical impulses originate from the sinoatrial (SA) node. Confirming sinus rhythm on an electrocardiogram (ECG) involves checking several key factors: Factors Confirming Sinus Rhythm on an ECG 2. P Waves: 3. PR Interval: 4. QRS Complex: 5. Regularity: 6. Heart Rate: 7. P […]