On an EKG, junctional bigeminy appears as?

On an EKG, junctional bigeminy appears as?

• A. A single PJB between two normal cycles
• B. Every normal cycle followed by a PJB
• C. PJBs alone without normal cycles
• D. Normal cycles only

Answer: (B)

Junctional bigeminy is characterized by a pattern where each normal heartbeat is followed by a premature junctional beat (PJB). This creates a repetitive sequence where a regular cycle (typically a normal QRS complex) alternates with a premature junctional complex. The presence of these PJBs after each normal cycle is a key feature, as it highlights the alteration between atrial-driven and junctional-driven rhythms.

In this scenario, the correct answer reflects this alternating pattern accurately. Each normal beat is effectively disrupted by a PJB, indicating that the heart's electrical impulses are originating from the junctional area rather than the atria during the premature heartbeat. This unique relationship between normal cycles and PJBs is fundamental in identifying junctional bigeminy on an EKG strip.

Thus, recognizing this specific pattern is essential for diagnosing and understanding the implications of junctional bigeminy in clinical practice.