I. Introduction to the 12 Lead EKG


The 12 lead electrocardiogram records the heart's electrical activity throughout the cardiac cycle. Utilizing a 10 electrode system, 12 different views of the heart are available. By statistically collecting electrocardiograms since the EKG machine was invented, the medical community has been able to identify normal and abnormal patterns even though each heart has its own particular characteristics.

Electrocardiographs in automatic mode record approximately 2.5 seconds of each lead and display them in the format below. Each lead is evaluated and compared with other leads to identify various cardiac conditions and rhythms.

II. The Lead System

To learn electrode type, definition, placement, and view, use the activity below.




III. The Electrocardiogram and the Cardiac Cycle


To learn the components of the EKG and their significance, use the activity below.