While not a book, another valuable resource for paramedics from Class Professional Publishing will be the subject of this quarter's Book Review.
Within this pack, you will find 21 colour-coordinated cards. The colours separate the cards into five different categories related to electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation:
- ST-Segment change
- Bundle Branch Blocks
- AV Blocks
- SVT rhythms
- Ventricular rhythms.
All the topics covered are ones you would expect to find on a paramedic degree course and that have relevance in the prehospital setting. The cards are described as ‘pocket-sized’, which is accurate if you are talking about the leg pockets in a standard ambulance service uniform. The cards are double-sided. One side illustrates the rhythm with some supporting text to describe certain elements such as where you would find significant changes to identify the rhythm in question. The flip side provides sub-headings and details associated with each specific rhythm. The same format is followed on each card, providing information on each of the following:
- Description
- Recognition
- Leads
- Signs and symptoms
- Significance.
The cards are promoted as a quick-reference learning tool or as a knowledge refresh while on the move. This is an accurate description. The detail provided on the card is brief but succinct, and would rely on some previous knowledge of ECGs.
The cards are clear in their description of the rhythm and, although the wider information does not go into great depth, it is concise, making it a usable quick-reference guide. I do recall having a homemade set of laminated ECG cards, which I carried around with me for those occasions where an ECG had me baffled—a kind of clinical comfort blanket should it be needed. These are just that.
If you are just about to start learning ECG recognition these are ideal. They would however need to accompany wider learning as they do not provide the depth of knowledge to understand the theories of ECG interpretation. They are nonetheless a great quick prompt or refresher. They would serve as an excellent revision aid for any upcoming ECG exams, but I could also see them tattered and torn having been shoved in a trouser pocket and used on the road at the patient's side.
The main test, which I have not yet performed is—would these cards survive a hot wash when you inevitably forget to take them out of your uniform at the end of shift? I am proud to say that my homemade laminated sheets have made it through several wash cycles!
Three Key Takeaways
- The ECG detail is clear and succinct, making the cards a quick and easy point of reference
- Wider ECG knowledge is required; however, the cards will help to build and maintain ECG knowledge
- The illustrations of the rhythms are neatly presented with helpful prompts provided to highlight identifying elements unique to that rhythm