Learning to read an EKG

[MattSmith45]

So I really want to learn how to read EKGs. What's the best resource to learn the basics without getting too in depth? I'm definitely not trying to get way too into it right now (not trying to be able to detect a trifascicular block or anything), but a basic grasp would be nice.

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[caffeinemia]

I found this link to a classic that many med students rely on. It may be illegal though, so a moderator should feel free to remove the link:

https://ecgepm.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/the-only-ekg-book-youll-ever-need_-5th-ed_by_mik.pdf

 

[mimelim]

I don't know why you would, but Dubin's is the best intro book.

 

[Straw Hat]

Rapid Interpretation of EKGs and The Only EKG Book You'll Ever Need are prob exactly what you're looking for.

 

[NickNaylor]

I don't know why you would, but Dubin's is the best intro book.

In case it's unclear, this is the book that @mimelim is talking about: http://goo.gl/Gq0grz (sorry for the shortened link, SDN was formatting the Amazon link incorrectly). This is probably the best book you can get as a primer as it assumes no knowledge and gives you the basic skills necessary to understand what is actually being measured with an EKG and how to begin interpreting abnormalities. You can certainly graduate to more advanced texts if you're interested, but this is the book I'd recommend to anyone who is looking to get down the basics of EKGs.

 

[mehc012]

This is also a fun site...clearly not intended for in-depth reading or anything like that, but it gets you familiar with the actual rhythms (only 1 lead) and it's a fun time-killer.
http://www.skillstat.com/tools/ecg-simulator#/-play

 

[2Pints]

So I really want to learn how to read EKGs. What's the best resource to learn the basics without getting too in depth? I'm definitely not trying to get way too into it right now (not trying to be able to detect a trifascicular block or anything), but a basic grasp would be nice.

When I was first starting out with nursing, my preceptor shared this website. http://www.icufaqs.org/

Obviously, there is a lot geared towards nursing care but the EKG sections are pretty good and the guy who wrote the material geared it towards getting beginners up to speed. Check out the sections 'Reading 12-Lead EKGs', 'Reading EKGs II' and 'Arrythmia Review'.