AN OVERVIEW OF PACEMAKERS




The SA (sinoatrial) node is the pacemaker of the 
heart and is part of the electrical conduction system.
Learn more about: Addressing pacemaker insertion



Why is a pacemaker implanted?

Pacemaker implantation may be done for different reasons.
Any damage to the heart muscle or the electrical conduction
which will interfere with the ability of the heart to function
normally may be indications for a pacemaker.
Sick sinus syndrome (though rare) or myocardial infarction
are examples.

Symptoms of a dysfunctional natural pacemaker

Patients who have dysfunction of their own natural
pacemaker may experience dizziness, syncopal
episodes (temporary loss of consciousness), chest
pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and a decrease
in blood pressure (hypotension). These symptoms
are due to a lack of blood flow to the body's organs.

The image above shows an EKG with a pacemaker
lead (wire) in the ventricle. There is normally a spike
 in front of the QRS. 

The spike may not appear if the pacemaker malfunctions.
Spikes in front of P and QRS means both chambers are
paced. Learn more about :


Scenario: A patient was involved in a car accident. 
Trauma to the chest area, has resulted in a pneumothorax.
Learn more about: Pneumothorax.


Learn more about : Neurological assessment

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