From the Guidelines
Only healthcare professionals with specialized medical training, such as cardiologists, emergency physicians, internists, critical care specialists, and specially trained nurses and paramedics, can accurately read EKGs. Reading an EKG requires the ability to visually interpret the electrical patterns of the heart, which involves analyzing the various waves, segments, and intervals that represent different phases of the heart's electrical activity 1. According to the American College of Physicians, proficiency in EKG interpretation requires a combination of knowledge, skill, and practical clinical experience, and guidelines recommend interpretation of at least 500 ECGs under supervision to attain initial competency 1. To maintain competency, the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association advise reading 100 ECGs yearly 1. Key aspects of EKG interpretation include:
- Identifying normal sinus rhythm
- Recognizing arrhythmias
- Detecting signs of heart attack
- Identifying electrolyte abnormalities
- Diagnosing other cardiac conditions Healthcare professionals who can read EKGs have undergone years of education and practice to develop this skill, and if an EKG interpretation is needed, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who has this specific training.
From the Research
Understanding EKG Readings
- EKG (electrocardiogram) is a crucial diagnostic tool for identifying cardiac arrhythmia and myocardial damage in clinical settings 2, 3.
- The ability to interpret EKG readings is dependent on the nurse's level of experience and the specific critical care area they are working in 2.
- Studies have shown that nurses have a poor knowledge of EKG rhythm identification and interpretation, highlighting the need for improved education and training 2.
Factors Affecting EKG Interpretation
- Length of time as a registered nurse and length of time in the current work environment are weakly correlated with nursing knowledge of EKG rhythm identification 2.
- Having a critical care background shows a positive relationship with nursing knowledge of EKG rhythm identification 2.
- Instructional modalities, such as computer-assisted instruction, can improve learning in EKG interpretation 4.
- Systematic interpretation approaches can also improve EKG interpretation skills 4.
Importance of EKG Interpretation
- Accurate recognition of ischemic patterns on an EKG is critical for timely and appropriate cardiovascular care 3.
- EKG is a useful diagnostic tool for evaluating patients for acute coronary syndrome and diagnosing ischemia 3.
- Understanding the electrophysiological basis of the EKG is essential for interpreting changes in electrical activity associated with cardiac disease 5.