Pacemaker Monitoring and Function Flashcards

In the NASPE/BPEG generic pacemaker code, what does the FIRST letter represent?

Answer: Chamber paced

The first letter in the pacemaker code indicates the chamber being paced (A=atrium, V=ventricle, D=dual).

On a rhythm strip, a pacemaker spike is visible but is NOT followed by a P wave or QRS complex. This is called:

Answer: Failure to capture

Failure to capture occurs when the pacemaker fires but the electrical stimulus does not successfully depolarize the myocardium.

In a VVI pacemaker, what does the second letter 'V' indicate?

Answer: The ventricle is sensed

In the VVI code, the second letter indicates the chamber being sensed — in this case, the ventricle.

Which pacemaker mode paces the ventricle, senses the ventricle, and INHIBITS pacing output when a native beat is sensed?

Answer: VVI

VVI mode paces the ventricle (V), senses the ventricle (V), and inhibits (I) pacing when a native ventricular beat is detected.

What is the primary advantage of a DDD pacemaker over a VVI pacemaker?

Answer: It maintains AV synchrony by pacing both chambers

DDD pacemakers maintain AV synchrony by sensing and pacing both atria and ventricles, preserving the atrial contribution to cardiac output.

When monitoring a paced rhythm, how does a ventricular paced beat typically appear on ECG?

Answer: Wide QRS preceded by a pacemaker spike

Ventricular paced beats produce a wide QRS complex (similar to a bundle branch block pattern) preceded by a pacemaker artifact (spike).

What does placing a magnet over a permanent pacemaker typically cause?

Answer: Asynchronous pacing at the magnet rate

Applying a magnet converts the pacemaker to an asynchronous (fixed-rate) mode at the manufacturer's designated magnet rate, regardless of intrinsic rhythm.