LEAD II ECG INTERPRETATION COURSE SYLLABUS
COURSE DURATION: 15 hours (10 self-study hours, 3 didactic hours, and 2 testing hours)
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The Lead II ECG Interpretation course reviews basic cardiac anatomy, physiology, and electrophysiology and teaches ECG rhythm, acquisition, and identification.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Upon completion of this course, the learner will demonstrate the ability to:
1. Integrate knowledge of the basic anatomy and physiology of the heart.
2. Demonstrate the steps in analyzing an ECG rhythm strip.
3. Explain ECG findings and nursing actions for a variety of atrial, ventricular, and junctional dysrhythmias.
TOPICAL OUTLINE:
I. Coronary anatomy and physiology
II. Electrophysiology
III. Lead morphology and placement
IV. Calculating heart rate
V. Atrial rhythms
VI. Junctional rhythms
VII. Ventricular rhythms
VIII. AV blocks
TEACHING AND LEARNING STRATEGIES:
You will learn through assigned readings, recorded and live lectures, learning groups and learning pairs, case studies, group discussions, self-directed study, and a certification exam. Active learning is valued and you are expected to participate in course learning activities.
COURSE MATERIALS AND RESOURCES:
Required text:
Ellis, K. M. (2011). EKG plain and simple (4th. ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.
All assigned readings and e-learning modules need to be completed before class. Ellis, K. M. (2011). EKG plain and simple (4th. ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.
How to prepare:
1. Read assigned chapter and complete practice strips at the end of each chapter (if applicable).
2. Complete corresponding e-learning module.
3. Print certificate of completion upon finishing each e-learning module. If unable to print certificate, obtain screenshot with electronic device or print screen feature. Bring all certificates of completion to the classroom/exam session.
4. If you do not complete all e-learning modules and present certificates of completion you will not be permitted to proceed with certification.
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Module
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Pre-course Reading and Requirements
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Content Exclusion
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1
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Involves self-directed study by reviewing the voice-over PowerPoint and/or reading the following chapters:
· 1 - Coronary Anatomy and Physiology
· 2 - Electrophysiology
· 3 - Lead Morphology and Placement
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2
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· 5 - Calculating Heart Rate
· 6 - How to Interpret a Rhythm Strip (read chapter, no e-learning course)
· 7 - Rhythms Originating in the Sinus Node (read chapter, no e-learning course)
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The following ECG rhythms will not be reviewed or tested:
· Chapter 7:
· Sinus arrhythmia
· Sinus arrest
· Sinus block
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3
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· 8 - Rhythms Originating in the Atria
· 9 - Rhythms Originating in the AV Junction
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The following ECG rhythms will not be reviewed or tested:
· Chapter 8:
· Wondering atrial pacemaker
· Multifocal atrial tachycardia
· Paroxysmal atrial tachycardia
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4
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· 4 - Technical Aspects of the EKG (read chapter, no e-learning course)
· 10 - Rhythms Originating in the Ventricle
· 10 and 16 - Interpreting Pacemaker Rhythms
· 11 - AV Blocks
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The following ECG rhythms will not be reviewed or tested:
· Chapter 10:
· Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
· Chapter 11:
· 2:1 AV block
Pacemakers, read chapter 16 (pp. 375 to 386) - optional
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Classroom Review and Certification Exam
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· Instructor review of ECG material.
· Complete proctored closed book certification exam.
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· Wednesday November 7th
· Room 2355 (across from the Renal Department)
· 0900-1500
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EVALUATION:
The certification exam is a proctored closed book examination. The exam consists of 20 ECG rhythm strips. For each rhythm strip there will be a total of 5 marks.
In order to be successful the following criteria should be used:
· Measurement of the PR interval
· Measurement of the QRS complex
· Measurement of the heart rate with ranges and mean
· Regularity of the rhythm
· Proper interpretation of the ECG rhythm and identification of abnormalities
To be successful in your Lead II course a mark of 90% or greater must be obtained.
All learners are responsible and accountable for their own work. Cheating will constitute failure of the course. Electronic equipment (cell phone, smartphone, smartwatch, laptop, tablet computer, etc.), portable listening or recording devices (MP3 player, iPod, etc.) are prohibited items on the certification exam day. A calculator may be used during the certification exam, calculators may not be shared.
Remediation
If a score of less than 90% is achieved, the certification test may be re-attempted (with new questions). Certification may be attempted a maximum of three times. If unsuccessful after the third attempt, the certification will be considered incomplete. A remediation plan may be considered on an individual basis. Manager(s) will be notified of all learners who require remediation. Remediation attempt(s) will be scheduled by the CNS.
Challenging the Certification Test
Learners with ECG interpretation education and certification from another institution may challenge the certification exam. A CNS will proctor the certification exam and mark it. If completed with a mark of 90% or greater, completion of the Lead II ECG Interpretation course is not required.
COURSE FACULTY:
Kevin Halabecki, BScN, RN
CNS-Trauma: Critical Care and Neurosurgical Services
Phone: 684-6252
E-mail: halabeck@tbh.net
Kristina Visser, MSN, RN
CNS: Cardiovascular and Stroke Program
Phone: 684-6253
E-mail: visserk@tbh.net
Peter Hayes, BScN, RN
CNS-Trauma: Emergency Services
Phone: 684-6265
E-mail: hayesp@tbh.net
