1.
ECG Rhythm Identification Cheat Sheet
2. Step-by-Step Interpretation Method
3. Common Rhythms on the Dysrhythmia A Exam
4. Practice Questions with Correct Answers + Explanations
5. Optional: Downloadable PDF (tell me if you want it)
1. ECG Rhythm Identification Cheat Sheet
Rhythm Key Features Treatment Priority
Normal Sinus Rhythm Rate 60–100, P before No intervention
every QRS, regular
Sinus Bradycardia Rate < 60, regular, P Assess symptoms; treat with atropine if
before QRS unstable
Sinus Tachycardia Rate > 100, regular Treat cause (pain, fever, hypovolemia,
anxiety)
Atrial Fibrillation No P waves, irregularly Anticoagulation, rate control
irregular
Atrial Flutter “Sawtooth” F waves Rate control, possible cardioversion
SVT (Supraventricular Rate > 150, narrow QRS Vagal maneuvers → adenosine
Tachycardia)
Junctional Rhythm No/retrograde P, HR 40– Treat cause; may need pacing
60
Ventricular Tachycardia Wide QRS, HR >100 Pulse present → antiarrhythmic; No
(VT) pulse → CPR + Defib
Ventricular Fibrillation Chaotic, no P/QRS Immediate defibrillation
(VF)
Asystole Flatline CPR only, cannot shock
2. The FAST Method (Use This on the Exam)
ECG Rhythm Identification Cheat Sheet
2. Step-by-Step Interpretation Method
3. Common Rhythms on the Dysrhythmia A Exam
4. Practice Questions with Correct Answers + Explanations
5. Optional: Downloadable PDF (tell me if you want it)
1. ECG Rhythm Identification Cheat Sheet
Rhythm Key Features Treatment Priority
Normal Sinus Rhythm Rate 60–100, P before No intervention
every QRS, regular
Sinus Bradycardia Rate < 60, regular, P Assess symptoms; treat with atropine if
before QRS unstable
Sinus Tachycardia Rate > 100, regular Treat cause (pain, fever, hypovolemia,
anxiety)
Atrial Fibrillation No P waves, irregularly Anticoagulation, rate control
irregular
Atrial Flutter “Sawtooth” F waves Rate control, possible cardioversion
SVT (Supraventricular Rate > 150, narrow QRS Vagal maneuvers → adenosine
Tachycardia)
Junctional Rhythm No/retrograde P, HR 40– Treat cause; may need pacing
60
Ventricular Tachycardia Wide QRS, HR >100 Pulse present → antiarrhythmic; No
(VT) pulse → CPR + Defib
Ventricular Fibrillation Chaotic, no P/QRS Immediate defibrillation
(VF)
Asystole Flatline CPR only, cannot shock
2. The FAST Method (Use This on the Exam)
