What are the best EKG or ECG exercises to use in healthcare simulation?

 

The best EKG or ECG (electrocardiogram) exercises for healthcare simulation are those that help learners recognize, interpret, and respond to various cardiac rhythms in realistic clinical scenarios. The most effective exercises combine technical skill development with critical thinking and clinical decision-making. Here’s a list of high-impact EKG/ECG exercises widely used in healthcare simulation:

 

1. Basic Rhythm Identification Drills for “Need to Know Rhythms”

Target: Students, new nurses, EMTs

  • Simulated rhythm strip interpretations for sinus rhythms, atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, etc.
  • Focus on rate, rhythm, P waves-shape and duration, PR interval, QRS complex-shape and duration, T waves-shape, etc.
  • Often used in early training or refreshers.

2. Code Blue/Cardiac Arrest Scenarios

Target: Advanced students, nurses, medical residents

  • Full-code simulations with shockable rhythms (e.g., V-fib, pulseless V-tach).
  • Requires correct rhythm recognition and ACLS response (defibrillation, CPR, medications).
  • Teaches appropriate interventions, timing, teamwork under pressure, communication skills during crisis, and priority setting.

3. Chest Pain/Triage Simulation

Target: Nurses-ER nurses, paramedics, medical students, medical residents

  • For patients presenting with chest pain; ECG/EKG shows STEMI or NSTEMI.
  • Involves EKG or ECG interpretation, activation of STEMI alert, and rapid intervention.
  • Reinforces integration of symptoms and ECG/EKG findings.

4. Post-Complication Recognition

Target: Nurses-ER nurses/Medical Surgical/ICU/Telemetry, interns

  • ECG/EKG evolves over time–e.g., from normal sinus to atrial flutter to RVR.
  • Learners must monitor, detect changes, notify providers, and intervene.

5. Electrolyte Imbalance or Drug Toxicity

Target: Nurses-ER nurses/Medical Surgical/ICU, Telemetry, pharmacy

  • ECGs/EKGs reflect hyperkalemia (peaked T waves), hypokalemia, digoxin toxicity, etc.
  • Learners must link metabolic derangement to ECG/EKG and recommend treatment.

6. Real-Time Monitor Interpretation

Target: All levels: Nurses-ER nurses/Medical Surgical/ICU/Telemetry, interns, students

  • Learners interpret a simulated bedside monitor while managing other patient care.
  • Helps train rapid interpretation during routine checks or emergencies.

7. ECG or EKG + Scenario Combo with Standardized Participants

Target: All levels: Nurses-ER nurses/Medical Surgical/ICU/Telemetry, interns, students + advanced learners (NPs, residents)

·         Live actor presents with symptoms; ECG/EKG strip handed out or shown on monitor.

  • Learners synthesize data (history + ECG/EKG + vitals) and decide treatment.
  • Builds holistic thinking and realism.

Pocket Nurse® offers a comprehensive lineup of ECG/EKG equipment and supplies including resting ECG machines, simulators, carts, electrodes, cables, calipers, rulers, paper, and other accessories.