Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

Bradycardia is defined as what?

1. Fast heartbeat

2. Irregular heartbeat

3. Slow heartbeat

4. Normal heartbeat

The correct answer is: Slow heartbeat

Bradycardia is defined as a slow heartbeat, typically recognized when the heart rate is fewer than 60 beats per minute in adults. This condition can be a normal physiological response in some individuals, especially those who are highly trained athletes, as their hearts become more efficient at pumping blood. However, bradycardia can also indicate underlying health issues, such as problems with the heart's electrical system, medication effects, or other medical conditions. It’s essential for healthcare providers to monitor bradycardia and assess whether it has any clinical significance, particularly if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or fatigue. In contrast, a fast heartbeat indicates tachycardia, while an irregular heartbeat refers to arrhythmia, both of which are distinctly different from the definition of bradycardia. A normal heartbeat, typically around 60-100 beats per minute, does not fall under the definition of bradycardia either.