Summary Cardiac Dysrhythmia Study Guide

CARDIAC DYSRHYTHMIA STUDY GUIDE



Sinus Rhythms

Normal Sinus Rhythm (NSR)

 Represents the normal electrical activity of the heart

 Heart rate typically between 60-100 beats per minute

 Each electrical impulse originates in the sinus node

Sinus Bradycardia

 Heart rate less than 60 beats per minute

 Can be normal in athletes or during sleep

 May cause symptoms like dizziness or fatigue

Sinus Tachycardia

 Heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute

 Often due to stress, exercise, fever, or stimulant use

 Can lead to symptoms like palpitations or chest discomfort

Atrial Rhythms

Atrial Fibrillation (A fib)

 Irregular and rapid heartbeat in the atria

 Increases the risk of stroke and heart failure

 Commonly treated with medications or procedures like ablation

Atrial Flutter

 A rapid and regular heartbeat in the atria

 Can cause symptoms like palpitations or shortness of breath

,  Treatment may involve medications or cardioversion

Premature Atrial Contraction (PAC)

 Early heartbeat originating in the atria

 Often felt as a 'palpitation' or 'skipped beat'

 Usually benign but can be associated with certain conditions

Ventricular Rhythms

Premature Ventricular Contraction (PVC)

 Early heartbeat originating in the ventricles

 Common and often benign, but can be concerning in certain situations

 May feel like a 'flip-flop' sensation in the chest

Ventricular Tachycardia

 Fast heart rhythm arising from the ventricles

 Can be life-threatening if sustained

 Treatment may involve medications, cardioversion, or ablation

Ventricular Fibrillation

 Chaotic, rapid heart rhythm in the ventricles

 Emergency situation requiring immediate defibrillation

 Without treatment, it leads to cardiac arrest and death

Ventricular Asystole

 Absence of ventricular electrical activity

 Represents cardiac arrest and requires immediate intervention

 Treatment involves CPR and advanced cardiac life support measures

Heart Blocks