Basic ECG Interpretation
Our ECG Interpretation Training and Reference Guides provide basic lessons for ECG analysis as well as a quick reference guide for over 40 types of ECG tracings. The arrhythmia drills and quizzes allow you to practice ECG interpretation.
What is ECG Interpretation?
An electrocardiogram or ECG, records electrical activity in the heart. An ECG machine records these electrical signals across multiple heart beats and produces an ECG strip that is interpreted by a healthcare professional.
How Electrocardiograms Work - ECG Strips
To briefly summarize the components of a normal ECG tracings, it consist of waveform components which indicate electrical events during one heart beat. These waveforms are labeled P, Q, R, S, T and U.
P wave is the first short upward movement of the ECG tracing. It indicates that the atria are contracting, pumping blood into the ventricles.
The QRS complex, normally beginning with a downward deflection, Q; a larger upwards deflection, a peak (R); and then a downwards S wave. The QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization and contraction.
The PR interval indicates the transit time for the electrical signal to travel from the sinus node to the ventricles.
T wave is normally a modest upwards waveform representing ventricular repolarization.
Arrhythmia Drills
Using multiple choice questions and answers, users are asked to identify arrhythmia tracings. Digital calipers are available to assist in analyzing each ECG practice strip. Feedback is provided after each response.
Arrhythmia Practice Drills
ECG Interpretation Tutor
Use our online ECG 'Workbook' to practice your ECG analysis skills and to learn over 40 different types of ECG tracings. After your analysis is completed, our ECG tutor presents an analysis from an ECG expert.
ECG Interpretation Tutor