NURS 201 - EKG Interpretation Basics: PQRST, Rate/Rhythm, and Common Arrhythmias Exam Review
University of Texas at Austin
NURS 201 - Health Assessment | Exam Review

Overview
An exam review sheet for nursing students to read EKG strips quickly: identify rate, rhythm, intervals, and common arrhythmia patterns with safe next steps.

Key topics
•PQRST wave meaning and normal ranges
•rate calculation methods (6-second and 300 rule)
•sinus rhythms and PAC/PVC basics
•atrial fibrillation/flutter recognition
•SVT vs VT red flags
•priority nursing actions and when to escalate

Suggested study tasks
•practice a 5-step EKG strip checklist on 12 examples
•calculate rate using two methods on 6 strips
•classify 10 rhythms as sinus vs afib/flutter vs VT
•identify 6 ?unstable patient? signs that change the priority
•write a one-page rapid response script for abnormal rhythms

Common pitfalls
•overfocusing on the rhythm name without assessing the patient
•miscounting rate from irregular rhythms
•ignoring PR/QRS/QT intervals
•confusing atrial flutter with SVT
•delaying escalation when there are instability signs