So you've read our blog, followed us on Facebook, submitted your own case studies, but you're looking for more. You're looking for the next big thing in EMS 12-Lead education. As a test run I've put together a video, shot Kahn Academy style using a pen and tablet, covering rapid axis determination.

When I learned 12-Lead interpretation in paramedic school, axis determination was covered but it never really sank in. A few folks were comfortable with the I-II-III method (up-up-up, up-down-down, etc). Others, like myself, understood what it meant, what it was for, but never really internalized it as a skill.

The technique I've found the easiest is one from Garcia and Holtz's 12-Lead ECG: The Art of Interpretation. It uses only leads I and aVF and could be called the "quadrant method". The best part is the method is easy to apply even when your own heart is racing!

The following video assumes you have a basic understanding of vectors and axes. The objective is to teach you a rapid means of axis determination using only leads I and aVF.

Let us know if this is helpful and let us know if you want more!