This page provides an overview of our sinus rhythm training materials, practice drills and reference guide.
What is sinus rhythm?
Sinus rhythm means a normal heart beat, both with respect to the heart rate and rhythm. Heart rate will fall between 60 and 100 beats per minute. The shape of the electrocardiogram (EKG) tracing will exhibit certain key attributes to be considered normal, as discussed below.
Sinus Rhythm EKG (ECG) Tracing
EKG tracings are printed on grid paper or displayed on a patient monitor. These tracings, the EKG waveform, have key features which indicate sinus rhythm or abnormalities (arrhythmias).
There are six wave components which are commonly analyzed in determining if the EKG is a sinus rhythm. These wave components provide clues regarding the underlying condition of the heart:
- P Wave
- PR Interval
- PR Segment
- QRS Complex
- QT Interval
- ST Segment
The P wave is the first bump and is normally an upward bump. The p wave measures atrial depolarization.
The P wave is followed by the QRS complex. It typically starts with a negative deflection, Q; then a large positive movement, R; and next a negative movement, the S wave. The QRS complex indicates ventricular depolarization and contraction.
Following the QRS complex, T wave is normally a modest upwards waveform, indicating repolarization of the ventricles.
The PR interval, PR segment, QT interval and ST segment are also evaluated using the EKG analysis in order to determine if the EKG tracing represents a sinus rhythm.