Which finding is associated with acute ischemia on an EKG?

Which finding is associated with acute ischemia on an EKG?

• A. Increased QRS duration
• B. Depressed ST segment
• C. Inverted T waves
• D. Elevated heart rate

Answer: (C)

In the context of acute ischemia, the presence of inverted T waves on the EKG is a significant finding. T wave inversion can indicate myocardial ischemia, which occurs when the heart muscle is not receiving adequate blood supply, often due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. This change is particularly relevant during episodes of stress or exertion, where oxygen demand exceeds supply.

Inverted T waves typically arise from disturbances in repolarization, signaling a potential area of the myocardium that is under strain from reduced blood flow. This is a common and early manifestation of ischemic changes on an EKG and can be observed in various conditions, including unstable angina and acute myocardial infarction.

While other findings such as increased QRS duration, depressed ST segments, and elevated heart rate may be associated with other cardiac events or conditions, they do not specifically indicate acute ischemia in the same way that inverted T waves do. Therefore, recognizing inverted T waves is crucial for identifying potential acute ischemic events on an EKG.