Foundations of ECG

This education activity will cover the basics of the anatomy and physiology of the heart and how to conduct and interpret an ECG.

Learning Outcomes

• An awareness of the indications for collecting and monitoring an ECG in the primary care environment.
• An understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system, including the cardiac cycle.
• An understanding of the symptoms of common cardiac conditions, including acute and chronic disease.
• A knowledge of validated tools used for the assessment of cardiac function.
• An awareness of actions to take when identifying an abnormal ECG trace.
• Enhanced skills in reading an ECG and identifying common indicators of cardiac conditions.
• Developed local knowledge of cardiac referral pathways. This knowledge is essential for nurses to understand the context of their practice and patients.

Estimated Duration

2 hours

Target Audience

Suitable for all nurses working in primary health care including general practice.