ECG Signs of Acute RV Strain at the Bedside Can Influence Resuscitation and Treatment

Multiple ECG signs of RV strain are associated with a higher mortality rate. These are the highest risk PEs that we see, in patients who might deteriorate if they have a delayed diagnosis or inappropriate treatment. Many PE don't produce RV strain and RV strain has a differential including chronic pulmonary hypertension. As with all ECG interpretation, it needs to be put in the context of the patient and in comparison with previous ECGs if available.