What heart condition is indicated by a rhythm strip displaying a double-humped P wave?

A rhythm strip showing a double-humped P wave typically indicates left atrial enlargement. When the left atrium becomes enlarged, the electrical activity that generates the P wave is affected. This altered pathway of depolarization leads to a characteristic appearance of the P wave that resembles a "bifid" or double-humped shape, often referred to as a "P mitrale" pattern.

In contrast, other conditions like atrial fibrillation are characterized by an irregularly irregular rhythm and absence of distinct P waves. Right atrial enlargement can produce tall, peaked P waves but does not result in a double-humped appearance. Ventricular hypertrophy is associated with changes in the QRS complex and does not specifically influence the P wave morphology. Thus, the correct identification of the double-humped P wave to indicate left atrial enlargement demonstrates an understanding of how anatomical alterations in heart structures can influence electrocardiographic findings.