Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

What is the usual rate range for nonparoxysmal junctional tachycardia?

1. 80-100 bpm

2. 101-140 bpm

3. 140-180 bpm

4. 60-90 bpm

The correct answer is: 101-140 bpm

The usual rate range for nonparoxysmal junctional tachycardia is between 101 and 140 beats per minute (bpm). This type of tachycardia originates from the junction of the atria and ventricles, typically when there is a disruption in the normal conduction pathway, often resulting in a faster than normal heart rate. The reason this range is accurate is that nonparoxysmal junctional tachycardia is characterized by a consistent and sustained elevated heart rate, which can be identified on an electrocardiogram (ECG) as having a rate that exceeds the normal sinus rhythm but does not reach the very high rates associated with other types of tachycardias (such as ventricular tachycardia). A heart rate below 100 bpm generally would not categorize it as tachycardia and falls outside of the expected ranges for this type of rhythm disturbance. In a clinical context, identifying the specific rate range helps healthcare professionals differentiate between various types of junctional rhythms and plan for appropriate management based on the underlying cause and patient symptoms. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for providing proper care and ensuring patient safety.