EM in 5: Pediatric EKG

Author: Anna Pickens, MD (@AnnaEMin5, Creator of EM in 5) // Edited by: Alex Koyfman, MD (@EMHighAK), Brit Long, MD (@long_brit), and Manpreet Singh, MD (@MprizzleER)

Welcome to this edition of EMin5 with Dr. Anna Pickens. Today we cover the pediatric EKG. Enjoy the video!

Video: 

Key Takeaway:

A systematic approach is essential. You know how to evaluate ECGs… Rate, rhythm, axis, intervals, waves, segments, abnormalities…

RV dominant early:

Axis is important and changes with age:

Normal EKG at 1 week: Right axis, Large R waves V1-V3, T-wave inversions in V1-V3

How about a closer look? Intervals change with age too!

Rate?

Example:

Remember… Normal EKG at 1 week: Right axis, Large R waves V1-V3, T-wave inversions in V1-V3

Further Reading:

• Lift in the Fast Lane: Pediatric ECG Interpretation
• Pediatric EM Morsels: Pediatric ECG
• Dr. Smith’s ECG Blog: Pediatric ECG Intervals
• PEM ED Podcast: Pediatric ECG Basics – Part 1 and Part 2
• Taming the SRU: Intro to Pediatric EKG
• emDOCs: Pediatric Syncope