BAMC Telemetry Practice Test 2025 - Free Telemetry Practice Questions and Study Guide

The condition that is associated with a "sawtooth" pattern on an ECG, specifically referred to as “F-waves,” is atrial flutter. In atrial flutter, the atria contract in a rapid and organized manner, typically at a rate of 240 to 340 beats per minute. This leads to distinctive 'sawtooth' formations, often observed in the inferior leads of the ECG, known as "F-waves." The characteristic pattern is caused by the reentrant circuit within the atria, which produces consistent and repetitive electrical impulses.

While atrial fibrillation can also be seen on an ECG, it typically presents with an irregularly irregular rhythm and does not display the organized 'sawtooth' pattern characteristic of atrial flutter. Ventricular fibrillation, on the other hand, is a chaotic and unorganized rhythm that does not produce distinct waveforms like F-waves. Normal sinus rhythm showcases a consistent and regular rhythm without any of these additional features. Thus, the presence of F-waves is a hallmark sign specifically identifying atrial flutter in ECG readings.