Arrhythmias (Dysrhythmias)

If there are no P waves present or the P wave morphology is not normal, then the exact rhythm must be determined. 

There are 4 types of abnormal rhythms to look for:

1. Irregular rhythms (unequal spacing)
   • Sinus arrhythmia
   • Wandering pacemaker 
   • Atrial fibrillation
2. Fast rhythms – ectopic focus
   • Supraventricular or Ventricular Paroxysmal Tachycardia: 100 – 250 beats/min.
   • Atrial or Ventricular Flutter: 250 – 350 beats/min.
   • Fibrillation
3. Early or late beats (premature or escaped)
   • Premature ventricular contraction (PVC)
   • Premature atrial contraction (PAC)
4. Heart blocks (SA, AV, BBB)
   • Atrioventricular block (AVB)