Description
As both a composer and a nurse, I sometimes like to find ways to combine my passions for music and medicine. In this piece, I musically explore several of the significant heart rhythms encountered in patients.
The primary motivic idea is a rhythmic phrase that is reshaped to reflect the idiosyncrasies of the heart rhythm being depicted.
Sinus rhythm is considered the normal state of the healthy heart. Its beat is strong and regular.
Atrial fibrillation is noted by an increase in heart rate and irregularity of rhythm. The beating becomes much less predictable. If left untreated, clots may form which can result in stroke, heart attack, and possibly death.
Ventricular tachycardia causes the heart to beat very rapidly, with occasional rhythmic irregularities. It’s most commonly the result of electrolyte imbalances.
In ventricular fibrillation, the heart beats so quickly that it begins to resemble a quivering mass of gelatin. The lower chambers of the heart can no longer perform their pumping function, which can lead to systemic shock. This is an emergency situation.
Asystole is the absence of a heartbeat. Death is not far behind (or may have already occurred).