Can You Read This Electrocardiogram?

The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a useful screening and diagnostic tool in the emergency department (ED) for dysrhythmias and other cardiac emergencies. In conjunction with a thorough history and physical examination, the ECG is an important part of the evaluation of many presenting complaints. The ED physician should be familiar with the most common cardiac diagnoses as well as those associated with sudden cardiac death. Knowledge of pediatric normal variants is also essential for correct ECG analysis and interpretation. We will review and discuss ECGs for several acute cardiac presentations to illustrate the usefulness of the ECG in the ED.