The rhythm is sinus bradycardia. Although the lines and boxes are hard to read precisely, clearly this is a slow rhythm, with a rate probably in the low 40's. As for treatment, the first question is... is the patient symptomatic? Many people (especially athletes) have heart rates this low, as do some people when sleeping. If this strip occurred in a patient having a procedure performed, this could be a vagal reaction and might need treatment with atropine. This rhythm might also be seen in sick sinus syndrome (“tachy-brady”) syndrome.
NOTE: EKG's are for internal educational purposes of the University of Massachusetts Department of Family Medicine. Please do not forward without permission from Dr. Golding!
