CVS Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Preparation

The typical characteristic of the aVF lead in a rhythm strip is the presence of an upright QRS complex. In a normal cardiac rhythm, the aVF lead reflects the electrical activity of the heart, particularly how depolarization occurs in the inferior portion of the heart.

When the heart is functioning normally, the depolarization wave travels towards the aVF lead, resulting in a positive deflection, which is the upright QRS complex. This indicates that the heart is depolarizing in a direction that is aligned with the axis of the aVF lead. The presence of an upright QRS complex is crucial for assessing cardiac rhythm and determining if the heart's electrical conduction is normal or indicates other potential issues.

Understanding the behavior of the aVF lead is vital for interpreting an ECG correctly, particularly in recognizing normal versus abnormal heart conditions. Other choices do not accurately represent the typical findings of the aVF lead in a healthy individual, highlighting the distinct role of the upright QRS complex in rhythm assessment.