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EKG Nomenclature

Normal EKG tracings consist of waveform components that indicate electrical events during one heart beat. These waveforms are labeled P, Q, R, S, T and U. The following descriptions are with respect to Lead II.

P wave is the first deflection and is normally a positive (upward) waveform. It indicates atrial depolarization.

QRS complex follows the P wave. It normally begins with a downward deflection, Q; a larger upward deflection, R; and then a downward S wave. The QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization and contraction.

T wave is normally a modest upward waveform, representing ventricular repolarization.

U wave indicates the recovery of the Purkinje conduction fibers. This wave component may not be observable.


EKG Nomenclature illustration


EKG Nomenclature illustration

Table of Contents

      Introduction
1EKG Paper
2EKG Nomenclature
3EKG Interpretation
4Rhythm
5Heart Rate
6P Wave
7PR Interval
8QRS Complex
9T Wave
10QT Interval
11ST Segment
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