As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can explain the significance of the R wave in an ECG reading. The R wave is a critical component of an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), which is a test that measures and records the electrical activity of the heart. The R wave specifically refers to the first upward deflection after the P wave in the ECG waveform. Even when Q waves are not present, the R wave is still identifiable. It is typically the most prominent and easiest waveform to identify on an ECG strip. The R wave represents the early phase of ventricular depolarization, which is the process where the ventricles of the heart begin to contract to pump blood out to the body. A healthy R wave progression can indicate proper electrical conduction and function of the heart's ventricles. read more >>

The R Wave. The R wave is the first upward deflection after the P wave (even when Q waves are absent). The R wave is normally the easiest waveform to identify on the ECG and represents early ventricular depolarisation.read more >>