What does atrial fibrillation typically display on an EKG?

What does atrial fibrillation typically display on an EKG?

• A. Regular and identifiable P waves
• B. Wavy baseline with tiny, erratic spikes
• C. Consistent QRS complexes
• D. Clear, identifiable waves

Answer: (B)

Atrial fibrillation is characterized on the EKG by a distinctive wavy baseline with tiny, erratic spikes, which represents the chaotic electrical activity in the atria. This irregularity occurs because, in atrial fibrillation, the normal rhythm of the heart is disrupted, leading to uncoordinated contractions of the atrial muscle fibers. As a result, the EKG does not show regular P waves; instead, the tracing exhibits this non-uniform baseline that reflects the fibrillatory waves.

Consequently, the absence of consistent and identifiable P waves, along with the irregularity of QRS complexes that may or may not be consistent, powerfully signifies the presence of atrial fibrillation. When interpreting an EKG for this condition, it's essential to recognize these characteristics to differentiate it from other arrhythmias or normal sinus rhythm.