What is the first step in interpreting an EKG?

Determining the heart rate and rhythm is the foundational step in interpreting an EKG because it provides vital information about the electrical activity of the heart. Analyzing the heart rate allows healthcare professionals to identify whether the heart is beating too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or at a normal rate. Understanding the rhythm helps to determine if the heart is in a regular or irregular rhythm, which is critical for assessing the patient's condition and any potential arrhythmias.

Once the heart rate and rhythm are established, further analysis, such as looking for P-waves, assessing the QT interval, and evaluating ST segment changes, can be performed with appropriate context. The heart rate and rhythm serve as the framework that guides the interpretation of additional EKG components, making this step essential for a thorough and accurate assessment of cardiac function.