Basic ECG Interpretation Course

📘 Basic ECG Interpretation Course

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamentals of ECG recording
• Learn a systematic approach to interpretation
• Recognize normal vs. abnormal patterns
• Apply knowledge to common clinical scenarios

Module 1: Introduction to ECGs

• What is an ECG and why it’s important
• Clinical uses (screening, diagnosis, monitoring)
• Safety and patient preparation

Module 2: Cardiac Electrophysiology Basics

• Heart’s conduction system (SA node → AV node → His-Purkinje system)
• Depolarization and repolarization explained simply
• How electrical activity translates into ECG waves

Module 3: ECG Setup

• 3-lead ECG overview
• Common mistakes and troubleshooting

Module 4: Reading the ECG Paper

• Small and large boxes: time and voltage
• Standard calibration (25 mm/s, 10 mm/mV)
• Measuring intervals and amplitudes

Module 5:

Teach students a simple checklist:

1. Rate – fast, slow, normal
2. Rhythm – regular or irregular
3. Evaluating Wave Intervals – P, QRS, ST, T
4. Waves & Segments – PR, QRS, QT

Module 6: Normal ECG

• Features of normal sinus rhythm
• Normal ranges for intervals and axis
• Examples of healthy tracings

Module 7: Common Abnormalities

• Arrhythmias: atrial fibrillation, flutter, SVT, ventricular tachycardia, heart blocks
• Ischemia/Infarction: ST elevation/depression, T-waves
• Other changes: Peaked T-waves

9. Module 8: Practice Cases

• Guided interpretation of sample ECGs
• Group discussion and peer learning

10. Module 9: Quick Reference Tools

• Checklist for ECG interpretation
• Recommended apps and textbooks

11. Module 10: Review & Assessment

• Recap of systematic approach
• Quiz
• Feedback and Q&A

COURSE INFORMATION

Date: Friday December 27. 2026

Time(s): 8:00 am to 2:30 pm

Location: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center at Women’s Guild Simulation Center for Advanced Clinical Skills

Address:

Cedars-Sinai Simulation Center

Susanne and Ervin Bard Pavilion

127 S. San Vicente Boulevard, Street Level, Suite A1300

Los Angeles, CA 90048

CANCELLATION/NO SHOW POLICY:

READ CAREFULLY - Once you have received a confirmation email stating that you are in the course. There is a $25 cancellation fee if you cancel within 60 days of the event and a $75 fee if you cancel within 30 days. By completing and submitting this form, either for yourself, or for one of your staff, you automatically agree to understanding this policy. This includes CSMC internal registrants. There are no exceptions to this policy.

Parking Information:

The Simulation Center is located on the Street Level of AHSP building. We recommend parking in Lot P4 (HERE). Parking to be validated.

For general information on the course, please contact Brett Dodd at brett.dodd@csmc.edu