What is indicated by a "sandwich" pattern in an EKG?

The presence of a "sandwich" pattern on an EKG typically indicates possible myocardial ischemia. This term often refers to specific types of changes noted in the ST segment that resemble a sandwich structure, involving shifts in baseline segments often indicative of problems with blood flow to the heart muscle.

When myocardial ischemia occurs, it can manifest as changes in the ST segment on an EKG, including elevation or depression. These changes reflect disturbances in the heart's electrical activity due to a lack of adequate blood supply that can result from conditions such as coronary artery disease. Recognizing these patterns is crucial for EMTs and other healthcare professionals since prompt identification of myocardial ischemia can lead to timely interventions.

The other options represent different cardiac or pathological conditions. A normal heart rhythm would not exhibit patterns typically associated with ischemia. Signs of heart failure are characterized by other specific EKG findings, such as signs of left ventricular hypertrophy or wide QRS complexes. Similarly, atrial flutter is usually identified by a distinct "sawtooth" pattern of P waves known as "F-waves," rather than a "sandwich" pattern. Understanding these distinctions is important for effective assessment and management of patients experiencing cardiovascular events.