On inspection of an ECG rhythm strip from an adult patient, you notice the following: regular sawtooth-like waves occurring at a rate of 280/min and a regular ventricular rhythm occurring at a rate of about 140/min. What is the most likely interpretation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The regular sawtooth-like waves occurring at a rate of 280/min indicate atrial flutter. The regular ventricular rhythm occurring at a rate of about 140/min indicates 2:1 AV block, which is a common finding in atrial flutter. Ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation have irregular ventricular rhythms. Atrial fibrillation would also have an irregular ventricular rhythm.

On Inspection of an ECG Rhythm Strip from an Adult