Cardiovascular system mnemonic

Order of ECG waves and what they represent

The mnemonic

P, QRS, T

What each word stands for

  • PAtrial depolarisation
  • QRSVentricular depolarisation (atrial repolarisation hidden)
  • TVentricular repolarisation

Why it matters clinically

Allows fast recognition of arrhythmias and conduction block.

Where it stops being reliable

It leaves out the PR interval, ST segment and U wave.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Cardiovascular system mnemonic?

P, QRS, T. It helps you recall: Order of ECG waves and what they represent.

What does "P" stand for?

Atrial depolarisation

What does "QRS" stand for?

Ventricular depolarisation (atrial repolarisation hidden)

What does "T" stand for?

Ventricular repolarisation

What are all the parts of the P, QRS, T mnemonic?

P: Atrial depolarisation; QRS: Ventricular depolarisation (atrial repolarisation hidden); T: Ventricular repolarisation.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Cardiovascular system in Physiology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

It leaves out the PR interval, ST segment and U wave.

How is this useful clinically?

Allows fast recognition of arrhythmias and conduction block.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Physiology question about Cardiovascular system.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.