EMTA 1102 - Cardiac Dysrhythmias

Description
An introductory course in the recognition and interpretation of cardiac dysrhythmias. The course covers basic anatomy, normal cell function and properties, electrical activity of the heart and ECG wave forms, followed with a discussion of the mechanisms of cardiac dysrhythmias by their site of origin, e.g.: atria, junctional, etc. Recognition and interpretation are facilitated by the use of actual ECG strips in class and as part of homework assignments.

Pre-Requisite
NONE

Co-Requisite
A Non-Transferable Course

2 Credit Hour(s)

Contact Hours
30 lecture hours

3 Faculty Load Hour(s)

Semesters Offered
Fall, Spring, Summer

ACTS Equivalent
N/A

Grade Mode
A-F

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of course the student will be able to:

Describe the basic electrophysiological path of impulse conduction in the heart
Identify the key anatomical tissue along the cardiac electrophysiological pathway
Correctly label basic cardiac anatomical structures and vasculature
Understand automaticity and conductivity of cardiac cells
Describe the process of depolarization and repolarization of cardiac cells
Recognize basic cardiac wave forms as represented in a monitoring lead
Develop an effective system of step-wise dysrhythmia interpretation.
Accurately interpret common cardiac dysrhythmias as seen in adult patients
Demonstrate correct use of both automatic and manual cardiac defibrillators
Explain common signs and symptoms typically present in patients experiencing myocardial injury or ischemia

General Education Outcomes Supported

Students develop higher order thinking skills.
Students can employ a variety of sources to locate, evaluate, and use Information

Standard Practices
N/A