Electrocardiography is typically the first cardiac test ordered in adult and pediatric patients presenting with potential cardiac abnormalities. Pediatric patients have unique physiology that rapidly changes from fetal to infant ages and then throughout childhood. These physiologic changes are reflected by changes in the electrocardiogram. In this lesson, we will review the basic principles and findings on the pediatric electrocardiogram.

Note: This course is eligible for ACPE credit.

• To discuss the basic principles of the cardiac electrical conduction system
• To recognize the formation of the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG)
• To recall the changes in physiology that occur in the normal newborn heart and how this is exhibited in the pediatric ECG
• To identify a methodology for interpreting the pediatric ECG, with the focus on recognizing normal sinus rhythm, age appropriate rates, and QRS axes
• To evaluate an ECG using the knowledge gained and recognize what information an ECG can and cannot provide