What does ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) typically appear as on an EKG?

What does ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) typically appear as on an EKG?

• A. Normal sinus rhythm with P waves
• B. Enormous consecutive PVC-like complexes
• C. Wide, irregular QRS complexes without P waves
• D. Short runs of bradycardia

Answer: (B)

Ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) typically appears on an EKG as a series of rapid, wide QRS complexes that may resemble consecutive premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). These complexes occur at a rate of usually more than 100 beats per minute and often take on a uniform appearance, making it difficult to distinguish individual beats.

This characteristic appearance occurs because V-tach originates from the ventricles rather than the atria, leading to a wide QRS complex due to the abnormal electrical conduction pathways. In V-tach, the normal atrial impulse does not precede the ventricular contractions, which is why P waves are typically absent or dissociated from the QRS complexes in this condition. The understanding of this presentation is crucial for proper identification and response to V-tach, as it can have significant implications for the patient's hemodynamic status and the need for immediate medical intervention.