Basic Cardiac Rhythms

This unique resource provides clear, concise explanations of the conduction patterns that result in the electrophysiologic tracing seen on the electrocardiogram (ECG). It covers basic and advanced dysrhythmia concepts, as well as the nursing implications for each rhythm.

One of the most time-consuming tasks in clinical medicine is seeking the opinions of specialist colleagues. There is a pressure not only to make referrals appropriate but also to summarize the case in the language of the specialist. This book explains basic physiologic and pathophysiologic mechanisms of cardiovascular disease in a straightforward manner, gives guidelines as to when referral is appropriate, and, uniquely, explains what the specialist is likely to do. It is ideal for any hospital doctor, generalist, or even senior medical student who may need a cardiology opinion, or for that ma.

Geared to LPNs/LVNs, this quick-reference pocket book provides an easy-to-understand guide to ECG interpretation and features over 200 clearly explained ECG rhythm strips. Following a refresher on relevant cardiac anatomy, physiology, and electrophysiology, the book presents the 8-step method for reading any rhythm strip. Subsequent chapters explain various cardiac rate and rhythm abnormalities, including sinus node arrhythmias, atrial arrhythmias, junctional arrhythmias, ventricular arrhythmias, and atrioventricular blocks. Arrhythmias are covered in a consistent format—causes, significance, ECG characteristics, signs and symptoms, and interventions. Coverage also includes ECG characteristics of disorders, drugs, pacemakers, and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators and a chapter on basic 12-lead electrocardiography.

A guide to reading and understanding rhythm strips and 12-lead ECGs, this updated edition reviews fundamental cardiac anatomy and physiology, explains how to interpret a rhythm strip, and teaches the reader how to recognize and treat 18 arrhythmias.

Offers a method for learning disorders of the heartbeat from an electrocardiogram. The user learns the dynamics of the autonomic nervous system and cardiac drugs are integrated throughout the text.

A Library Journal Best Consumer Health Book of 2010 Heart rhythm problems can be a matter of life or death. In this easy-to-read guide, Dr. Todd Cohen provides comprehensive information to help people with heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Dr. Cohen tells readers what they need to know about palpitations, rapid heart rhythms (tachycardias), slow heart rhythms (bradycardias), cardiac arrest, and other conditions related to irregular heartbeats. With the goal of informing and empowering heart patients, Dr. Cohen describes the heart's basic function, the various conditions associated with arrhythmia, and recommended courses of treatment. He discusses such procedures as tilt table testing, electrophysiology studies, catheter ablation, and device implantation (including cardiac monitors, pacemakers, defibrillators, and biventricular devices); explains the essentials of CPR and the use of Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs); and presents the latest guidelines from the American College of Cardiology, the American Heart Association, and the Heart Rhythm Society. A Patient's Guide to Heart Rhythm Problems will help readers understand • how the heart works and what can go wrong • the tests and other diagnostic procedures they may undergo • how their doctor reaches a diagnosis • what their diagnosis means • how their doctor might treat the problem • when medication alone is sufficient treatment • when pacemaker, defibrillator, or biventricular therapy is appropriate • how to get the best possible medical care—in and out of the hospital Endorsed by the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association, this essential resource features tables highlighting key information, as well as patient narratives that provide personal insight into arrhythmia tests, treatments, and technologies.

Written in a clear, easy-to-understand style, Introduction to Basic Cardiac Dysrhythmias, Revised Fourth Edition, uses straightforward language to explain how the heart functions and how to interpret ECGs-essential knowledge that will allow you to anticipate the appropriate treatment for each. Coverage of the 2010 Emergency Cardiovascular Care guidelines are reflected in all topics in the text.

Interpreting Basic Cardiac Dysrhythmias Without Heartache is a step by step guide on interpreting basic electrocardiogram (EKG) readings in adults. Students benefit from first understanding normal sinus rhythm, as well as basic dysrhythmias, and then applying this understanding to rhythms that are more advanced and difficult. The book discusses the conduction system of the heart and the purpose of the electrocardiogram. Students learn how to read EKG waveforms and interpret rates and pacing. The book also addresses sinus and atrial dysrhythmias, atrial-ventricular blocks, and ventricular dysrhythmias. Each section of the text includes quizzes that students can use to check their comprehension and progress. Physiology and pathophysiology as they pertain to each dysrhythmia are also addressed, as are common interventions and medications. Clear and concise, Interpreting Basic Cardiac Dysrhythmias Without Heartache is an ideal teaching tool for students in all levels of nursing programs as well as for practicing nurses needing to refresh their knowledge. The practical applicability of the information also makes this a useful guide for paramedics and emergency medical technicians. Cheryl Miller is a registered nurse who earned both her M.S.N. and her Ed.D. at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Dr. Miller is a professor of nursing at Chattanooga State Community College where she teaches medical-surgical nursing specializing in critical care, serves as the chair of the nursing program effectiveness committee, and as liaison with area hospitals for student clinical placement. She is a past recipient of the Chattanooga State Teaching Excellence Award, and the author of Interpreting Arterial Blood Gases: The Easy Way and The Nurse's Guide to Labs: A Quick and Easy Resource.