Bundle Branch Block
| Rate | variable |
| P wave | normal if the underlying rhythm is sinus |
| QRS | wide; > 0.12 seconds |
| Conduction | This block occurs in the right or left bundle branches or in both. The ventricle that is supplied by the blocked bundle is depolarized abnormally. |
| Rhythm | regular or irregular depending on the underlying rhythm. |
Left bundle branch block is more ominous than right bundle branch block because it usually is present in diseased hearts. Both may be caused by hypertension, MI, or cardiomyopathy. A bifasicular block may progress to third degree heart block.
Treatment is artificial pacing for a bifasicular block that is associated with an acute MI.
RnCeus Homepage | Course catalog | Discount prices | Login | Nursing jobs | Help