A Systematic Approach to Electrocardiogram (EKG) Interpretation by Using 2 Mnemonics!!! Sounds Good!!!

Step 1: Evaluate all elements of the EKG systematically: A RARE PQRST.

Step 2: Differential diagnosis. Look for diseases that may have caused the abnormalities noted in step 1: DR III EEE !

This systematic approach to reading electrocardiograms (ECGs or EKGs) works every time, just like a machine. By using it, you will not miss any major abnormalities in electrocardiograms (EKGs).

What is the meaning of the mnemonics?

A RARE PQRST:

Age, e.g. a 60-year patient is likely have a different pathology from a 30-year patient
Rate, e.g. fast or slow?
Axis, e.g. left or right?
Rhythm, e.g. regular or irregular?
Evaluate each EKG element as follows:
P wave, e.g. peaked or absent? PR interval - short or prolonged?
Q wave, e.g. deep Q wave? QT interval - - short or prolonged?
R wave, e.g. tall? look at QRS complex width for RBBB or LBBB
ST segment, e.g. elevation or depression?
T wave, e.g. peaked or inverted? U wave?

DR III EEE:

Drugs , e.g. Digoxin, tricyclic antidepressants
Rhythm and rate abnormalities, e.g. AV block of 1,2,3 degree, AFib, SVT? Interval prolongation?

Ischemia?
Infarct? Deep Q wave?
Infection, e.g. pericarditis

Enlargement, e.g. LVH, RVH, left or right atrium enlargement?
Electrolyte disturbances, e.g. hyperkalemia, hypokalemia, hypercalcemia,
Endocrine causes, e.g. hypothyroidism

                                          

TAKEN FROM clinicalcases.org