A nurse is reviewing an ECG that shows ventricular tachycardia. Which of the following characteristics would be most evident on the ECG?

Question

Question

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AIIMS NORCET 7 Prelims Memory Based Paper 2024

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Rapid, wide QRS complexes

Rationale:

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a type of fast heart rhythm that originates from the ventricles of the heart. It is characterized by a rapid heart rate, typically over 100 beats per minute, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
In VT, the electrical impulses that control the heart rhythm begin in the ventricles rather than the atria. This leads to the ventricles contracting more quickly and independently of the atria, which disrupts the normal, coordinated heart rhythm.
The most evident characteristic of VT on an ECG is the presence of rapid, wide QRS complexes. The QRS complex represents the depolarization of the ventricles, and in VT, these complexes are wider than normal because the ventricles are not following the usual conduction pathways.
The rapid and wide QRS complexes in VT indicate that the ventricles are beating quickly and in an abnormal pattern, which is a hallmark of this arrhythmia.

Explanation of Other Options:

Slow, irregular heartbeats

Rationale: Slow, irregular heartbeats are not characteristic of ventricular tachycardia. VT is defined by a fast heart rate, not a slow one. Slow heart rates are more commonly associated with bradycardias or other types of arrhythmias.

No visible P waves

Rationale: While it is true that P waves may not be visible or may be dissociated in VT, this is not the most defining feature. The absence of P waves can occur in other types of arrhythmias as well, such as atrial fibrillation.

P-wave abnormalities

Rationale: P-wave abnormalities are not the most characteristic feature of VT. P-wave abnormalities can occur in many different types of arrhythmias, including atrial arrhythmias, but they do not specifically indicate ventricular tachycardia.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, the most characteristic ECG finding for ventricular tachycardia is the presence of rapid, wide QRS complexes. This is indicative of the ventricles depolarizing quickly and in an abnormal pattern, which is the hallmark of VT. Recognizing this pattern is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of this potentially life-threatening arrhythmia.