How does ventricular fibrillation appear on an EKG?

How does ventricular fibrillation appear on an EKG?

• A. Regular pattern of P waves and QRS complexes
• B. Completely erratic with no identifiable waves
• C. Clear P waves with varying QRS intervals
• D. Consistent electrical activity but no pulse

Answer: (B)

Ventricular fibrillation is characterized on the EKG by a completely erratic line with no identifiable waves. This chaotic electrical activity results from the disorganized contraction of the myocardium, which prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood. The absence of coherent P waves and QRS complexes signifies that there is no organized rhythm or meaningful contraction occurring in the ventricles. Instead of producing a patterned output, the EKG shows a series of jagged, irregular fluctuations, which reflect the lack of coordinated electrical impulses in the heart. This disarray is critical for identifying ventricular fibrillation, as it indicates a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Other patterns seen in normal or different abnormal rhythms might showcase defined waves or regularity, which are not present in this scenario.