Arrhythmias and Cardiac Bedside Monitoring in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Cardiac physiology is unique in neonates and infants; there are several physiologic changes that occur in the first weeks of life. Important changes can be captured on the bedside monitor and provide vital data in a noninvasive way to providers. The importance of diligent observation cannot be overstated. Bedside monitoring has improved in the last decade, which has enhanced the ability to detect changes in heart rates and rhythms. The purpose here is to review cardiac physiology, describe those arrhythmias able to be observed on bedside monitors, and highlight heart rate changes that can be early signs of sepsis.

Keywords: Cardiac monitoring; Electrocardiography; Infants; Neonatal intensive care unit; Neonates.