OBJECTIVES

Explain the relationship between placement of the ECG electrodes, electrical conduction through the heart, and polarity of ECG complexes. Explain the difference in indicative and reciprocal ECG changes during myocardial infarction. Identify ECG patterns consistent with injury, ischemia, and infarction. Utilize ECG analysis to identify anterior, lateral, and inferior myocardial infarctions. List ECG manifestations consistent with illicit drug abuse. Describe ECG changes consistent with abnormal serum levels of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Describe the use of right-sided ECG leads in evaluating the possibility of a right ventricular infarction in the patient with an acute inferior MI. Recognize ECG manifestations of the following cardiac abnormalities: a. tamponade b. pericarditis c. cardiac contusion Identify the classic ECG manifestation of a pulmonary embolus. Explain the physiologic basis of 'poor R wave progression.' Discuss the relationship between COPD and low voltage QRS complexes. Describe ECG changes consistent with disorders of the central nervous system.