What does the QRS complex signify in an EKG?

The QRS complex in an EKG represents ventricular depolarization, which is a critical phase in the cardiac cycle. During this phase, the electrical impulses travel through the ventricles, leading to their contraction. The depolarization occurs as the cardiac muscle cells of the ventricles become electrically activated, resulting in the contraction that pumps blood from the heart to the lungs and the rest of the body.

The QRS complex is visually characterized by a sharp spike followed by a return to the baseline, and it typically lasts from 0.06 to 0.10 seconds. Recognizing the significance of the QRS complex is essential for understanding various cardiac conditions and diagnosing potential abnormalities in heart function.