Question

Gillian is a cheerful, active teenager who is having an ECG as part of a physical required by her school to participate in cheerleading activities. You explain that she needs to remain very still while you record the ECG. You begin the tracing, as shown in the picture. Although Gillian remains still, when she sees the look on your face, she asks, "What's wrong?" What abnormality is visible in lead V6, and what is your best choice of action?

Answer 1

An abnormality in an ECG lead V6 requires calm assessment and may necessitate further medical evaluation or testing to determine appropriate action. Comparing the current ECG with previous ones can help in assessing the changes in heart function.

Step-by-step explanation:

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a clinical diagnostic tool used to record the electrical activity of the heart. It involves the placement of electrodes on the body to capture this activity. The 12-lead ECG provides comprehensive information about heart function, allowing for the detection of abnormalities such as infarcts, which are regions of damaged heart tissue.

However, it has limitations and may not always show all areas affected by myocardial infarction (MI), nor does it assess the mechanical pumping effectiveness of the heart. In this case, the student will have detected an abnormality in lead V6, which must be addressed accordingly. The next step is to remain calm and ensure Gillian remains relaxed too. The detected abnormality should be evaluated by comparing it with prior ECGs, if available, and determining whether immediate medical attention is needed. Subsequent steps may include referral to a cardiologist or conducting further tests.