How to characterize the regularity of rhythm?

1. How do you assess rhythm regularity?
2. What is rhythm regularity?
3. How do you determine atrial regularity of a rhythm tracing?
4. Which is the first criteria measured for interpretation of the regularity of the rhythm?

How do you assess rhythm regularity?

If the distance of the R-R intervals or P-P intervals is the same, the rhythm is regular – if the distance differs, the rhythm is irregular. Several methods can be used to determine rhythm regularity, including using calipers, marking a paper with a pen, and counting the small squares between each R- R interval.

What is rhythm regularity?

Rhythm Regularity

A rhythm is considered “regular or constant” when the distance apart is either the same or varies by 1 ½ small boxes or less from one R wave to the next R wave.

How do you determine atrial regularity of a rhythm tracing?

Atrial heart rhythm

To determine if the atrial rhythm is regular vs irregular, we would measure the distance between P waves with a caliper. A regular atrial heart rhythm will have the same distance between P waves while an irregular rhythm will have varying distances between them.

Which is the first criteria measured for interpretation of the regularity of the rhythm?

Step 1: Determine if the rhythm is regular or irregular

Find the first cardiac complex in the ECG and locate the “QRS” complex. From there you will identify the “R” waves throughout the remainder of the ECG strip. You can make small markers above each complex for ease of identification.