Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT) Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

The type of rhythm indicated by a regular P wave followed by a spike before the QRS complex is a P-wave synchronous, ventricular paced rhythm. In this rhythm, the P wave represents atrial depolarization and occurs regularly, demonstrating that the atria are contracting and producing a P wave consistently. The spike before the QRS complex indicates that there is stimulation of the ventricles, which is typically due to a pacing mechanism.

In this scenario, the pacemaker produces a spike after the P wave, ensuring that the timing of ventricular contraction is synced with the atrial contraction, which is vital for maintaining an effective heart rhythm. The fact that the QRS complex follows the spike shows that the pacing is effectively facilitating ventricular depolarization in response to atrial activity.

Understanding this rhythm is important, as it highlights the synchronization between the atrial and ventricular pacing, ensuring that the heart chambers work together effectively. This kind of rhythm is often seen in patients who receive pacing therapy to manage arrhythmias, where maintaining proper timing between atrial and ventricular contractions is crucial for optimal cardiac output.