Dr. Smith's ECG Blog

DECEMBER 26, 2020

Tachycardia and ST Elevation. Likewise, in some cases of ischemia concealed by flutter waves, the ischemia can be seen despite the flutter waves, whereas in other cases the dysrhythmia must be terminated before the ischemia can be clearly distinguished. Tachycardia to this degree can cause ST segment changes in several ways.

Atrial Flutter 52

Atrial Flutter Ischemia STEMI Tachycardia 52

Dr. Smith's ECG Blog

OCTOBER 10, 2022

Then there is loss of pulses with continued narrow complex on the monitor ("PEA arrest") Learning Points: Sudden witnessed Cardiac Arrest due to ACS is almost always due to dysrhythmia. The ECG accurately reflects the physiologic state of the underlying myocardium, but there is always more than one possible etiology of that physiologic state.

Cardiac Arrest 52

Cardiac Arrest Chest Pain Embolism Pulmonary 52

Dr. Smith's ECG Blog

NOVEMBER 19, 2016

Smith comment: In a large randomized trial of dopamine vs. norepinephrine (11) for shock which was published after the above-mentioned recommendations, dopamine had more adverse events (especially severe dysrhythmias, and especially atrial fibrillation). Any alteration in physiology can change "compensated" AS to "decompensated" AS.

Ischemia 52

Ischemia Cardiogenic Shock Aortic Stenosis 52

Dr. Smith's ECG Blog

APRIL 8, 2015

If the patient has Abnormal Vital Signs (fever, hypotension, tachycardia, or tachypnea, or hypoxemia), then these are the primary issue to address, as there is ongoing pathology which must be identified. Fourth, syncope in the elderly often results from polypharmacy and abnormal physiologic responses to daily events.

Arrhythmia 52

Arrhythmia Outcomes Risk Factors Chest Pain 52