Lbyphyp Ekg Martinez
Analyzing the Heart with EKG
Nicole Mae Martinez, Paolo Go, Gerome Sy
BS in Pre-med Physics Student, Physics Department, De La Salle University - Manila, 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines
nicsisme@yahoo.com
Abstract — Monitoring one’s electrical activity of the heart is important in determining any abnormalities present in the heart. In this experiment, we investigated the wave forms presented by the electrocardiogram reading and relate it to the heart’s electrical activity of the members. We first attached one electrode each on the inner left and right forearm and on the right wrist. Then, we observed the wave patterns of the electrical impulses of the heart. We also identified the different intervals needed to be observed. Next, we interchanged the electrodes on the forearms with each other to be able to see a change in the electrical activity of the heart. Based on the results, all three subjects have normal QRS and Q-T intervals. On the other hand, Subject 3’s P-R value is not within the normal range, indicating his impulse might have taken a shorter route. Also, all three subjects have normal heart rates.
Keywords — electrocardiogram, electrical impulse, electrode, waveform
I. Introduction
Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a simple test that provides a graphical representation of the heart’s electrical activity. It helps in monitoring the present condition of the heart and in showing any irregularities in the heart. [1] From the readings presented by the EKG, one can see the pattern of the electrical impulses through the heart as it contracts and relaxes. [2] The heart contracts and pumps the blood towards the lungs and other parts of the body through a natural electrical impulse or wave. [3] Different wave intervals make up an electrocardiogram reading. The P wave is derived from the upper chambers of the heart while the bottom chambers constitute the QRS Complex. Lastly, the T wave corresponds to the relaxation stage
Nicole Mae Martinez, Paolo Go, Gerome Sy
BS in Pre-med Physics Student, Physics Department, De La Salle University - Manila, 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines
nicsisme@yahoo.com
Abstract — Monitoring one’s electrical activity of the heart is important in determining any abnormalities present in the heart. In this experiment, we investigated the wave forms presented by the electrocardiogram reading and relate it to the heart’s electrical activity of the members. We first attached one electrode each on the inner left and right forearm and on the right wrist. Then, we observed the wave patterns of the electrical impulses of the heart. We also identified the different intervals needed to be observed. Next, we interchanged the electrodes on the forearms with each other to be able to see a change in the electrical activity of the heart. Based on the results, all three subjects have normal QRS and Q-T intervals. On the other hand, Subject 3’s P-R value is not within the normal range, indicating his impulse might have taken a shorter route. Also, all three subjects have normal heart rates.
Keywords — electrocardiogram, electrical impulse, electrode, waveform
I. Introduction
Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a simple test that provides a graphical representation of the heart’s electrical activity. It helps in monitoring the present condition of the heart and in showing any irregularities in the heart. [1] From the readings presented by the EKG, one can see the pattern of the electrical impulses through the heart as it contracts and relaxes. [2] The heart contracts and pumps the blood towards the lungs and other parts of the body through a natural electrical impulse or wave. [3] Different wave intervals make up an electrocardiogram reading. The P wave is derived from the upper chambers of the heart while the bottom chambers constitute the QRS Complex. Lastly, the T wave corresponds to the relaxation stage
References: [1] “What is an Electrocardiogram?” http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/ekg/ [2] “EKG Electrode Placement” http://www.webmd.com/heart/ekg-electrode-placement (2010) [3] “Electrocardiogram” http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/electrocardiogram (2010) [4] “Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)” http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HeartAttack/SymptomsDiagnosisofHeartAttack/Electrocardiogram-ECG-or-EKG_UCM_309050_Article.jsp (2012) [5] D. Gordon & S. Gordon, Human Physiology with Vernier, Vernier, Beaverton, OR, USA.