Atrial Fibrillation — ECG Academy Lesson

Identify atrial fibrillation on a rhythm strip using the three hallmark findings, classify AFib by duration and rate category, understand the stroke risk mechanism, and recognize the monitor tech responsibilities for this high-prevalence arrhythmia.

Learning Objectives

• State the three hallmark findings of atrial fibrillation on a rhythm strip
• Explain the mechanism of chaotic atrial electrical activity in AFib
• Classify AFib as paroxysmal, persistent, long-standing persistent, or permanent
• Categorize ventricular rate response as RVR, controlled, or slow
• Describe the stroke risk mechanism and the purpose of the CHA2DS2-VASc score
• Differentiate AFib from atrial flutter, MAT, and sinus arrhythmia
• Identify the appropriate monitor tech actions for new-onset and rate-change AFib