What does a flatline on an EKG typically indicate?

A flatline on an EKG, often referred to as asystole, indicates the absence of electrical activity in the heart. This means that there are no electrical impulses stimulating the heart muscles to contract, resulting in no measurable heart rate or rhythm. This condition is critical and requires immediate medical intervention, as it signifies that the heart is not functioning effectively to pump blood to the body.

In contrast, sinus rhythm describes a normal heart rhythm where the electrical impulses are initiated from the sinus node, which is not reflected by a flatline. Ventricular tachycardia represents a rapid heartbeat originating from the ventricles, clearly showing electrical activity. A normal resting heart state would exhibit regular electrical activity, usually visible as a pattern on the EKG. Hence, the correct identification of a flatline as the absence of electrical activity is essential for understanding serious cardiac conditions and the need for prompt emergency response.