A description is provided of an associate degree in nursing science course, "Rapid Interpretation of Electrocardiograms (EKG's)," designed to emphasize the nurse's role in the interpretation of the basic EKG and the medical interventions necessary to treat arrythmias. The first section of the course description provides information on curricular placement, class structure, and targeted student population. Following a glossary of relevant terms, course content is discussed in terms of the rationale for the course, long-range course goals and objectives, end-of-course goals and objectives, and units of instruction. A list of texts and other instructional materials for the course is followed by descriptions of the six course units: (1) normal conduction system and EKG tracings; (2) coronary anatomy and electrical axis; (3) abnormalities in conduction; (4) atrial arrythmias and treatment; (5) ventricular arrythmias; and (6) treatment of ventricular arrythmias, bradycardia, and tachycardia. A listing of instructional materials and a detailed description of goals and objectives is provided for each class unit. An evaluation section on student achievement and course revision completes this document. (UCM)