This page provides an introduction to junctional rhythms and links to our EKG junctional rhythm interpretation training content.
The SA node is the normal origin of the electrical impulse for a heart beat. When the SA node cannot perform this role, the atrioventricular (AV) node may take over pacemaking. When this occurs, the EKG will likely have distinctive waveform features that reveal important aspects of these junctional rhythms.
Junctional rhythms include:
Accelerated junctional rhythm EKG occurs when the AV junction fires impulses at above 60 bpm. Rhythm will be very regular. The QRS complex is narrow (0.10 sec or less).
Junctional escape beats originate in the AV junction and are late in timing. They often occur during sinus arrest or after premature atrial complexes. The QRS complex will be measured at 0.10 sec or less. Rhythm will be regular with a rate of 40-60 bpm.
This abnormal rhythm originates in the bundle of His. It is observed as three or more premature junctional complexes (PJCs) appearing in a row. Heart rate will be over 100 bpm.
Premature junctional complex (PJC) occurs when an irritable site within the AV node fires an impulse before the SA node. This impulse interrupts the sinus rhythm. The QRS complex will be narrow, usually measured at 0.10 sec or less.
The five steps of rhythm analysis will be followed when analyzing any rhythm strip. Analyze each tracing in the following order.
We will be discussing the following complexes and rhythms:
Analyze this tracing using the five steps of rhythm analysis.
>Analyze this tracing using the five steps of rhythm analysis.
Analyze this tracing using the five steps of rhythm analysis.
Analyze this tracing using the five steps of rhythm analysis.
Analyze this tracing using the five steps of rhythm analysis.
Analyze this tracing using the five steps of rhythm analysis.
When analyzing a rhythm strip, it qualifies as being regular when
When analyzing a rhythm strip, it qualifies as being regular when
Which of the following is considered normal range of the QRS complex?
>Which of the following is considered normal range of the QRS complex?
A good starting point for learning is our junctional rhythms module. This module focuses on the morphologic features and qualifying criteria of junctional rhythms. A concise summary of a five-step EKG analysis methodology is also included.
Hundreds of heart rhythms. Tests can be tailored for specific learning needs.
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