• The monitor shows an identifiable electrical rhythm, but no pulse is detected.
• The rhythm may be sinus, atrial, junctional, or ventricular.
• PEA is also called electromechanical dissociation (EMD).

Rate: Reflects underlying rhythm

Rhythm: Reflects underlying rhythm

P Waves: Reflect underlying rhythm

PR Interval: Reflects underlying rhythm

QRS: Reflects underlying rhythm

Clinical Tip: Potential causes of PEA are trauma, tension pneumothorax, thrombosis (pulmonary or coronary), cardiac tamponade, toxins, hypokalemia or hyperkalemia, hypovolemia, hypoxia, hypoglycemia, hypothermia, and hydrogen ion (acidosis).