An idioventricular rhythm strip is an electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern that represents the heart's rhythm originating from a site within the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart. This type of rhythm is also known as a ventricular escape rhythm because it occurs when the normal pacemaker of the heart (the sinoatrial or SA node) fails to generate an electrical impulse. The ventricles then take over and produce their own rhythm, which is typically slower than the normal heart rate. The idioventricular rhythm is characterized by a wide QRS complex, which is the electrical signal that represents the ventricles contracting to pump blood. The rate is typically less than 60 beats per minute, which is slower than the normal heart rate. When the ventricular rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute, it is referred to as an accelerated idioventricular rhythm. An idioventricular rhythm can be a normal finding in certain situations, such as during sleep, or it can be a sign of an underlying heart condition. It is important for healthcare professionals to interpret the ECG in the context of the patient's symptoms and overall health status. read more >>

An idioventricular rhythm is very similar to ventricular tachycardia except the ventricular rate is less than 60 beats per minute. ... When the ventricular rate is between 60 and 100 bpm, it is referred to as an accelerated idioventricular rhythm.read more >>