EMT 092 - Cardiac Monitor (EKG) for the EMT

1.5 Credits, 1.5 Contact Hours
1.5 lecture periods 0 lab periods

Introduction to the cardiac monitor or electrocardiograph (EKG). Includes an in-depth look at the cardiac monitor, the many different cardiac rhythms students may encounter as an EMT, and discussion of various treatments for abnormal rhythms.

Corequisite(s): Concurrent enrollment in EMT 100 or EMT 110.
Information: Not a substitute for Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), but appropriate for entry level EMT students. Ideal exploration course for those considering a career beyond EMT, such as Paramedic or Nursing.

Course Learning Outcomes

Describe the use of (3) three-lead and (12) twelve-lead cardiac monitors.
Identify the following cardiac rhythms: Asystole, Ventricular Fibrillation, Ventricular, Tachycardia, Pulses Electrical Activity (PEA), Sinus Rhythm, Bradycardia, Tachycardia, Atrial Fibrillation, Atrial Flutter.
Discuss the stable patient evaluation and explain the rationale of that decision.
Discuss the unstable patient evaluation and explain the rationale of that decision.
Discuss the various treatments for each of the cardiac rhythms.

Outline:

Using a Cardiac Monitor
1. Three (3) lead EKG
2. Twelve (12) lead EKG
Different Rhythms
1. Sinus rhythm
2. Bradycardia
3. Tachycardia
4. Asystole
5. Ventricular tachycardia
6. Ventricular fibrillation
7. Pulses electrical activity (PEA)
8. Atrial fibrillation
9. Atrial flutter
Stable Patient
1. Pulse
2. Respirations
3. Skin color, temperature, and condition
4. How the patient feels
Unstable Patient
1. Pulse
2. Respirations
3. Skin color, temperature, and condition
4. How the patient feels (feeling of impending doom)
Introduction to Treatment Algorithm
1. Specific treatments for each cardiac rhythm, as approved by the American Heart Association
2. Individuals who follow these algorithms
3. Medications used
4. Individuals who can use these medications

Effective Term:
Fall 2017