EMS Cardiology - Electrocardiograms (EKGs)

EMS Providers play a crucial role in assessing and managing patients in prehospital settings.

Understanding electrocardiograms (EKGs) is vital for EMS providers as it allows them to quickly assess and identify cardiac issues in patients.

Here's a breakdown of what EMS providers should know about EKGs, including their history, development, and use in the prehospital setting:

Definition:

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a graphic representation of the electrical activity of the heart over time.

It is commonly used to diagnose various heart conditions and monitor the effectiveness of treatments.

History of Development:

The development of the EKG can be attributed to several key figures, including Willem Einthoven, who invented the first practical EKG in the early 20th century.

Einthoven's string galvanometer allowed for the recording of electrical potentials produced by the heart.

Components of an EKG:

P Waves: Represent atrial depolarization.

QRS Complex: Indicates ventricular depolarization.

T Waves: Represent ventricular repolarization.

Use in Prehospital Setting:

Early Identification of Cardiac Issues:

EKGs help identify cardiac abnormalities, such as myocardial infarction (heart attack), arrhythmias, and conduction disturbances.

Early identification allows for timely intervention and improves patient outcomes.

Integration with Cardiac Monitoring:

Portable EKG monitors are part of EMS equipment, allowing continuous cardiac monitoring during patient transport.

Monitoring changes in the EKG pattern helps in assessing the patient's response to treatment and detecting new issues.

Communication with Receiving Hospitals:

Transmitting EKG data to receiving hospitals allows for early notification and preparation for cardiac patients.

This is particularly important for patients requiring immediate interventions, such as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Training and Proficiency:

EMS providers should receive training in EKG interpretation to accurately identify abnormalities.

Proficiency in recognizing ST-segment elevation, T-wave changes, and arrhythmias is crucial for making rapid clinical decisions.

Clinical Decision Support:

EKG findings guide clinical decision-making, such as the administration of thrombolytics or antiplatelet agents for acute coronary syndromes.

Recording and Documentation:

Accurate documentation of EKG findings is essential for the continuity of care.

Clear communication of findings to hospital staff helps streamline the transition of care.

Continuous Quality Improvement:

EMS agencies should establish protocols for the ongoing review and quality improvement of EKG interpretations.

Regular training sessions and case reviews contribute to improved proficiency among EMS providers.

In summary, EMS providers should have a solid understanding of EKG basics, historical development, and the practical application of EKGs in the prehospital setting.

This knowledge enhances their ability to rapidly assess and manage patients with cardiac conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Ongoing education and proficiency maintenance are crucial in this dynamic field.

Further Reading:

Garcia, T. (2013) 12-Lead ECG: The Art of Interpretation (2nd Ed.) Jones & Bartlett Learning

Walraven, G. (2016) Basic Arrhythmias (8th Ed.). Pearson

ECG Educational Standards for Prehospital Providers