EKG RHYTHMS - STEP BY STEP

 Updated 10 /25              

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Poor circulation may occur for a number of reasons.
The patient in heart failure, is at risk for stroke.

Myocardial infarction

A MI (myocardial infarction ) is also known as a heart
attack. It results from obstruction to blood flow. Fatty
deposits may cause this. 

Death of the heart muscle surrounding the obstructed
blood vessel will result. Symptoms such as lack of oxygen,
shortness of breath and chest pain will occur.

 Reperfusion Therapy is a form of treatment used

for patients who have a myocardial infarction with 
STEMI ( ST segment elevation myocardial infarction).
See above image for an example of STEMI.

STEMI 

Typically, the patient with a completely blocked
coronary artery, would demonstrate STEMI on 
the EKG. Death of the heart muscle caused by a
blood clot, would obstruct blood flow and cause
lack of oxygen.  

Severe chest pain, shortness of breath and possible
fainting may occur. Quick intervention would be
necessary to prevent further damage. 

TPA

TPA ( Thrombolytic Plasminogen Activator) is
a " clot buster" that is used in the treatment of 
embolic stroke and myocardial infarction with
STEMI. 

TPA  is not without its side effects. Bleeding, 

particularly into the brain and at injection sites,
 seizures and possible anaphylaxis may occur.

Labetolol , an antihypertensive may be ordered.
ICP monitoring may also be ordered by the doctor.

The heart is always at work. Hemodynamics refers
to blood flow. Any obstruction to the flow of blood
in and around the heart, may lead to failure.

- Myocardial infarction

- Atrial fibrillation

- Lethal rhythms

- CABG