A nurse is reviewing a client's ECG rhythm strip. Which of the following components should the nurse use to measure impulse conduction from the sinus node through the atrioventricular node?
Explanation & Rationale
A. ST segment: The ST segment represents the period between the end of ventricular depolarization and the beginning of ventricular repolarization. It does not reflect impulse conduction from the sinus node to the atrioventricular (AV) node. B. QRS complex: The QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization and does not reflect impulse conduction through the atria or the AV node. It mainly reflects the electrical activity of the ventricles. C. PR interval: The PR interval measures the time it takes for the electrical impulse to travel from the sinus node through the atria and AV node before reaching the ventricles. It is the most appropriate component for evaluating impulse conduction from the sinus node through the AV node. D. PP interval: The PP interval measures the time between successive P waves, which corresponds to the time between atrial depolarizations. It does not specifically reflect conduction through the AV node.