Sinus tachycardia is one of many SVTs. However, learning to separate sinus tach from the rest is important.
- Look at the history. What is the patient’s presenting complaint? Sinus tachycardia usually has a reason (that can be seen in the history) that causes it.
- Look for variability. Sinus tachycardia has variability. SVT doesn’t. Make sure you look at a long enough strip to appreciate the variability in sinus tachycardia.
- HR > 220 for adults is likely SVT. HR <200 is likely sinus tachycardia. The cut-off is 180 in pediatric populations. [Verify this rule]
Note, both sinus tachycardia and SVT have p waves. However, some SVTs may have more than one p waves.
Use all three of the above, not just one to determine if an SVT is sinus tachycardia or not.
Check
https://www.ems1.com/ems-products/cpr-resuscitation/articles/191012048-Sinus-tach-or-SVT-4-clues-to-tell-the-difference/