EKG Quiz

Explanation
The P wave is the correct answer because it represents the electrical signal that causes the atria (upper chambers of the heart) to contract. This contraction allows blood to be pumped into the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart). The QRS complex and T wave represent the electrical signals that cause the ventricles to contract and relax, respectively. PVC stands for premature ventricular contraction, which is an abnormal electrical signal that can occur in certain heart conditions.

Explanation
A single premature contraction with a P wave indicates a premature atrial contraction (PAC). PAC is an irregular heartbeat caused by an early electrical impulse originating in the atria. It is characterized by a premature P wave followed by a normal QRS complex. PACs are common and usually harmless, often caused by stress, caffeine, or alcohol. They do not require treatment unless they occur frequently or are associated with other heart conditions.

Explanation
The upper chambers of the heart are called the atria. They receive blood from the veins and pump it into the lower chambers, known as the ventricles. The atria play a crucial role in the heart's function by ensuring efficient blood flow and coordination with the rest of the heart's electrical system.

Explanation
Ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) is a type of abnormal heart rhythm that originates from the ventricles of the heart. The ventricles are the lower chambers of the heart responsible for pumping oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. In V-tach, the electrical signals that control the heart's beating become disrupted, causing the ventricles to beat rapidly and irregularly. This can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If left untreated, V-tach can be life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to identify and treat the origin of the rhythm disturbance in the ventricles.

Explanation
Untreated sleep apnea is closely related to atrial fibrillation (AFib). Sleep apnea is a condition where a person's breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to low oxygen levels in the blood. This can cause changes in the heart's structure and function, increasing the risk of developing AFib. AFib is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that can lead to various complications, including stroke. Therefore, patients with untreated sleep apnea are at a higher risk of developing AFib.