Question

The presence of which of the following on an EKG tracing can indicate a previous myocardial infarction (MI)?

a) Tall, peaked T waves
b) Absence of P waves
c) Q waves
d) Wide QRS complexes

Answer 1

The presence of Q waves on an EKG tracing is a specific indicator of a previous myocardial infarction (MI).

Step-by-step explanation:

The presence of certain features on an EKG tracing can indicate a previous myocardial infarction (MI). One specific indicator of a past MI is the presence of Q waves. During a heart attack, the affected heart muscle can die, leading to a scar that affects the electrical activity of the heart.

This change can result in Q waves that are deeper and wider than normal and often remain on the EKG permanently. Other indicators such as tall, peaked T waves or wide QRS complexes can suggest other abnormalities, but Q waves are particularly noted for their association with a myocardial infarction.