Question

In a healthy adult patient, which of the following is the expected shape and direction of the P wave in lead II?

a) Upright and rounded
b) Inverted and peaked
c) Absent
d) Flat and irregular

Answer 1

The expected shape of the P wave in lead II of an ECG for a healthy adult is upright and rounded, indicating normal atrial depolarization.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a healthy adult patient, the expected shape and direction of the P wave in lead II during an ECG (Electrocardiogram) is upright and rounded. The P wave represents atrial depolarization, which is the electrical activity associated with the contraction of the atria as they pump blood into the ventricles. Lead II captures this depolarization as a positive deflection due to its placement and the direction of the depolarization vector moving towards the lead's positive electrode.

The P wave is followed by the QRS complex indicating ventricular depolarization, and then the T wave that depicts ventricular repolarization. Therefore, the correct option is upright and rounded, reflecting normal atrial depolarization and contraction.

Answer 2

In a healthy adult patient, a) Upright and rounded is the expected shape and direction of the P wave in lead II.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a healthy adult patient, the expected shape and direction of the P wave in lead II is a) upright and rounded. Lead II is one of the standard electrocardiogram (ECG) leads, and it represents the electrical activity of the heart from the perspective of the right arm to the left leg.

The P wave represents atrial depolarization, and in lead II, it is typically upright and rounded, indicating normal electrical activity originating in the atria.

The P wave is an essential component of the ECG waveform, representing the electrical activation of the atria as they prepare to contract. The normal P wave morphology signifies the coordinated and healthy initiation of the cardiac cycle.

Changes in the shape or direction of the P wave can provide valuable information about potential cardiac abnormalities, such as atrial enlargement or conduction disturbances.

Understanding the expected characteristics of the P wave in lead II is fundamental for healthcare professionals interpreting ECGs. It allows for the identification of normal cardiac electrical activity and provides insights into potential issues affecting the atria. Accurate interpretation of the P wave contributes to the overall assessment of cardiac function and assists in the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular conditions.