Run Time: 6 minutes

Author: Dr. Eric Miller

Educational Pearls:

• The QT interval is the time from the depolarization of the ventricle through the repolarization of the ventricle. Long QT increases the risk for dangerous dysrhythmias.
• The QTC – the corrected QT interval – abnormal is over 440ms for men and 460ms for women.
• Several conditions can prolong the QT including low potassium, low magnesium, low calcium, certain cardiac medications, and genetics.
• Drugs can prolong QT such as certain antibiotics, antifungals, cardiac drugs, phenothiazines, and antihistamines. There is a strong recommendation to have the patient on monitor if giving these medications.
• Treatment w/ beta-blocker – adrenergic response is prevented. AICD also pretty effective at eliminating dysrhythmias.

References:  http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/105/7/784.full