Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CRAT Practice Questions and Study Guide

Second degree AV block type I is commonly known as Wenckebach, named after the Dutch cardiologist who described this phenomenon. In this type of block, the conduction through the AV node progressively lengthens until a beat is dropped. This pattern is often characterized by a cyclical pattern on the electrocardiogram (ECG), where there are gradually increasing PR intervals followed by a non-conducted P wave.

Understanding the nature of Wenckebach is crucial in rhythm analysis, as it informs the clinician about the patient's conduction system and potential underlying cardiac issues. The other names mentioned do not refer to this specific type of AV block. For instance, Einthoven is known for his work related to the electrocardiogram and the triangle formation of leads, Thorell does not have specific ties to this form of block, and Bachmann is associated with Bachmann's bundle, which conducts impulses from the right atrium to the left atrium. Hence, Wenckebach is the correct term to identify second-degree AV block type I in the context of cardiac rhythm analysis.