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Reading X-Rays, Reading ECGs


Reading X-Rays ( Fig. A.1 and A.2 )

Reading ECGs

Rate

Multiply the number of QRS complexes in a 6-second period (30 large squares) (between the two large dots) by 10 = beats/minute ( Fig. A.3 ).

Fig. A.1, Posteroanterior chest x-ray.

Fig. A.2, Lateral chest x-ray.

Fig. A.3, Reading ECGs. Rate.

Normal = 60 to 100 beats/minute

Tachycardia = >100 beats/minute

Bradycardia = <60 beats/minute

Rhythm

Is the rhythm regular?

Is there a P wave preceding every QRS complex? Is there a QRS complex following every P wave?

  • 1.

    Yes = sinus rhythm.

  • 2.

    No P waves with irregular rhythm = atrial fibrillation (AF).

  • 3.

    No P waves with regular rhythm = junctional rhythm. Look for retrograde P waves in all leads.

Axis

See Fig. A.4 .

Fig. A.4, Axis.

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