This course teaches the proper preparation and electrode placement, operation of the ECG machine and the anatomy and function of the heart as it relates to the waveforms that are produced. Students learn to recognize all parts of the basic waveform, calculate heart rate and measure blood pressure. Knowledge is then expanded to include recognition and understanding of atrial and ventricular dysrhythmias, in particular ischemia and myocardial infarction. The course concludes with the identification of basic cardiovascular medications. Hands-on experience in our own clinical setting. Students will be eligible for the National Exam upon successful completion of the course.