Learn the Basics of ECG Interpretation

This course deals with the basics of ECG interpretation. The History of Electrocardiography is briefly discussed and the Physiology of the Action potential of the Myocardial cell and the Pacemaker cell are discussed. The placement of the limb leads and the chest leads are discussed. The interpretation of a normal ECG with measurement of the intervals and segments are explained. The ECG criteria diagnose Atrial enlargement and Ventricular hypertrophy is dealt with in detail. Determining the QRS axis from the ECG leads is explained and the diagnosis of Myocardial Infarction from the 12 lead ECG is dealt with in detail. Finally, a few common Miscellaneous conditions like Electrolyte disturbances including, Hyperkalemia, Hypokalemia, Hypercalcemia and Hypocalcemia are discussed. The ECG changes in Acute Pulmonary Embolism and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease are dealt with in detail. Diagnosis of Pericarditis and Digitalis toxicity are explained. Early Repolarization syndrome and its changes in the ECG are discussed. Finally, Pre excitation syndromes are dealt with in detail. Wolff Parkinson White Syndromes A and B and Lown Ganong Levine syndrome are explained. Finally, Hypothermia causing ECG changes are discussed.

At the end of the discussions, the learner will be given an opportunity to evaluate himself with an ECG quiz where 12 lead ECGs will be shown and the student requested to interpret them and answer relevant clinical questions.