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Atrial Fibrillation EKG Reference
Welcome to our atrial fibrillation reference page. This page provides a definition followed by an synopsis of EKG features. Links to our practice drills, quizzes, lessons and interactive guides can be found below.
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat which is frequently rapid. It occurs when the atria (upper heart chambers) beats chaotically. This atrial beating is out of sync with the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart).
Atrial Fibrillation occurs when multiple electrical impulses occur within within the atria. This chaotic electrical activity results in a chaotic wave form between the QRS complexes. P waves are absent. They are replaced by lower case "f" waves. No P waves means there is no PR interval measurement. This rapid electrical activity overwhelms the AV node causing impulses to enter the ventricular conduction system at irregular points. This results in irregular R to R intervals.