Hello, I'm an expert in the field of cardiology with a focus on electrophysiology. I'd be happy to explain how the PR interval is measured.
The
PR interval is a specific segment of the
electrocardiogram (ECG) that represents the time from the start of the P wave to the start of the QRS complex. It reflects the time taken for the electrical impulse to be transmitted from the
atria to the
ventricles, which is part of the process of atrial depolarization and ventricular depolarization.
To measure the PR interval, follow these steps:
1. Locate the P wave: The P wave corresponds to the atrial depolarization and is usually the first visible wave of an ECG cycle.
2. **Identify the beginning of the QRS complex**: The QRS complex represents the ventricular depolarization and is typically characterized by a sharp deflection following the S wave.
3. Measure the time: Use the ECG's calibration, which is usually set at 25 mm/s (or small squares equal to 0.04 seconds), to measure the time from the beginning of the P wave to the beginning of the QRS complex.
The
normal PR interval is between 0.12 to 0.20 seconds (or 3 to 5 small squares on the ECG grid).
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