Reviewed and updated by Lisa Bonsall, MSN, RN, CRNP, CCRN: August 30, 2024

I’m drawn to articles that offer tips, top ten lists, mnemonics, and quick-reads to make our days and lives as nurses run smoother. That’s why I’m happy to share that I learned a new mnemonic device! Plus, the topic is ECG interpretation and you may recall that one of my most memorable days as a nurse began with analysis of a Six-Second Strip. 

H's and T's

So, what are the H’s and T’s referred to in the title of this post? They are the reversible causes of cardiac arrest, which include:

• Hypovolemia
• Hypoxia
• Hypothermia
• Hypoglycemia
• Hyper/hypokalemia
• Hydrogen ions (acidosis)
• Toxins
• Tamponade
• Tension pneumothorax
• Thrombosis
• Trauma

Do you have any similar mnemonic devices to share? Let’s help one another to remember all that is nursing and healthcare!