Importance of ECG in ICU | Critical Care

1. Electrocardiography (ECG)

 The electrocardiogram is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. An ECG is performed by placing electrodes on the skin to record the electrical signals produced by the heart. These signals are then interpreted by a cardiologist to determine if any abnormalities exist. A normal ECG should show regular sinus rhythm, P waves, QRS complexes, T waves, and ST segments. Abnormalities may indicate cardiac disease, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, pericarditis, pulmonary embolism, septicemia, electrolyte imbalance, drug toxicity, or hypoxia.




 2. Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

 Intensive care units provide intensive medical treatment to critically ill patients. Patients who require intensive care are those who have suffered severe trauma, major surgery, stroke, heart attack, respiratory failure, or poisoning. In addition to treating these conditions, the staff at the ICU monitors the patient's condition throughout their stay. If the patient requires mechanical ventilation, they are connected to a ventilator via tubes inserted into the nose or mouth. The nurse or doctor will monitor the patient's breathing and blood pressure. Other treatments administered include intravenous fluids, medications, nutrition, oxygen therapy, and dialysis.

 3. Cardiac Arrest

 Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating. When the heart stops, blood flow to the brain is cut off, causing brain damage and death. There are two types of cardiac arrest: sudden cardiac arrest and pulseless electrical activity. Sudden cardiac arrest is caused by a blockage in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. Pulseless electrical activity occurs when the heart does not beat regularly, yet the electrical system still works.

 4. Ventricular Fibrillation

 Ventricular fibrillation is a type of irregular heartbeat. VF causes the heart to pump blood unevenly, resulting in low blood pressure and a lack of oxygen in the body. VF is often caused by a problem with the electrical system of the heart.

 5. Defibrillators

 A defibrillator is a device that delivers an electric shock to the heart to restore its regular rhythm. Defibrillators are used to treat people experiencing cardiac arrest.