What appears in the EKG for someone suffering from atrial flutter?

In cases of atrial flutter, the classic hallmark on an electrocardiogram is the presence of sawtooth appearances of the F-waves, often described as "F-waves" or "flutter waves." These waves manifest in a characteristic pattern, commonly referred to as "F-waves," that resemble a jagged or sawtooth shape, particularly observable in the inferior leads (II, III, and aVF). This pattern is indicative of the rapid atrial activity that defines atrial flutter, as the atria contract at a rate that is usually around 250 to 350 beats per minute.

The distinctive sawtooth pattern contrasts sharply with normal sinus rhythm, where P-waves appear smooth and rounded. The identification of F-waves is crucial in diagnosing atrial flutter, as it directly affects treatment decisions and patient management.

The other potential findings in the choices do not correlate with atrial flutter. High amplitude Q waves are often signs of myocardial infarction or other cardiac issues; a prolonged QT interval can be indicative of arrhythmias or electrolyte imbalances; and flat T waves can represent a variety of conditions such as ischemia or electrolyte disturbances. These do not represent the specific patterns seen in atrial flutter, making the presence