How to interpret the heart rate waveform on an electrocardiographic monitor to determine if there is a problem

The heart rate waveform on an electrocardiographic (ECG) monitor can generally be assessed for abnormalities by observing the continuously changing waveforms displayed in the top two rows of the screen. Specific analysis is as follows:

On the upper right corner of the ECG monitor, there are four lines. The first line typically displays heart rate, with a normal range of 60–100 beats per minute. The second line also shows a waveform, which reflects either non-invasive blood pressure measured via a cuff or invasive arterial pressure. On the far right, the blood pressure value appears as a fraction: the numerator represents systolic pressure, and the denominator represents diastolic pressure. A number in parentheses following this fraction usually indicates mean arterial pressure. The third line clearly displays a sinusoidal wave representing the patient's blood oxygen saturation. When the waveform is accurate, the number on the far right reflects the patient's pulse oximetry (SpO₂), which normally ranges between 88% and 100%. On the last line, a sinusoidal waveform illustrates the patient's respiratory rate, with the numerical value on the far right indicating the respiratory rate.

In addition, the four waveforms on the cardiac monitor collectively reflect the patient's vital signs. If any abnormalities appear on the monitor, medical staff should be notified immediately for appropriate evaluation and intervention.