How can I interpret a 12 lead EKG?

Answer 1

There are many factors taken into account when one interprets an EKG. There are certain measurements that are also done to see if they fall into the normal ranges. I would suggest that you take a course if possible or have a medical person sit down and explain what they look at to determaine if the EKG is normal or not.
I have been interpreting EKG's for about 30 years and even I get stumped at times and need to ask a collegue if they see what I see or not.
Reading a book is a good idea but then they get they very in depth with the eletrophysiology of the heart and it can be confusing.
If you type in EKG Interpretation - Page 1 on yahoo search engine then go to the web site it runs through the basics of interprting an EKG

Answer 2

I think it is best to start with the basics of the EKG. If you understand where the leads are placed and what you are actually seeing on the EKG strip, it will make interpretation very easy. I would suggest the book "Rapid Interpretation of EKG's" by Dale Dubin. It walks you step by step through EKGs and you learn a lot!

Answer 3

in order to interprete an ECG/EKG, you should know the basic of ECG, such as normal, P, Q, R, S, T. and other PR interval, QRS complex, ST interval, and its presentation. in our study, for ECG alone we needs lots of time to understand and really remember the different type of abnormal ECG.
the important one would be Atrial Fibrillation, Atrial Tachycardia, Ventricular Fibrillation, Ventricular Tachycardia, etc.
one of the resource that i always get from is from www.lww.com
so, enjoy ur learning.

Answer 4

All the above respondents have answered very well you should accumulate their knowledge and plan out on their experiences.
Any way you guys have left nothing for me to write. HOWEVER I WILL ONLY GIVE YOU ONE QUOTE " TO SAIL A SEA YOU REQUIRE BOTH COMPASS AND KNOWLEDGE OF THE SEA" (I hope I have not misquoted). Hope you will read and see the patients ECG/EKG.
Best of luck.