PEA - A Condition of a Rhythm
Objective: Distinguish ECG morphology from the clinical condition of organized electrical activity without a pulse.
What PEA Means
PEA stands for Pulseless Electrical Activity. In plain terms: the monitor shows organized (or semi-organized) electrical activity, but the patient has no palpable pulse — so that electrical activity is not producing effective cardiac output.
Street Context
PEA is not a single waveform. It is a clinical condition layered on top of whatever morphology you see: organized electrical activity on the monitor with no palpable pulse. Naming only the morphology without the pulse check can create false reassurance.
Key Points
- PEA = Pulseless Electrical Activity — electrical activity without a pulse, not a unique strip “look.”
- Always confirm pulse when the monitor shows organized activity.
- PEA can appear with many underlying rhythms (sinus, idioventricular, and others) — not one unique strip pattern.
- Management thinking prioritizes high-quality CPR, reversible causes (Hs/Ts education framework), and protocol-driven care.
- Do not confuse “looks like a heartbeat on the screen” with cardiac output.
- Document and communicate clearly: rhythm morphology + pulse status (for example, “sinus brady, PEA”).
Decision Checkpoint
The monitor shows a sinus bradycardia at 40. No pulse is felt. How do you name this for your team — and what action framework comes first educationally?
Practice
In CardioStrip, browse organized rhythms and practice the mental check: “If this patient had no pulse, what would I call this condition?”
Sources & Further Study
- ACLS educational framing of PEA / organized rhythm without pulse.
- Local protocol governs actual resuscitation care.
Education only. Apply learning within your protocols and medical direction. This is not clinical care guidance.