Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

Which condition is characterized by rapid and ineffective contractions of the atrium?

1. Bradycardia

2. Atrial Fibrillation

3. Ventricular Tachycardia

4. Sinus Rhythm

The correct answer is: Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is specifically characterized by rapid and ineffective contractions of the atrium. In this condition, the electrical signals in the atria become disorganized, leading to a quivering or chaotic rhythm instead of a normal, coordinated contraction. Consequently, this disorganized electrical activity prevents the atria from fully contracting, resulting in an inefficient pumping action. This can lead to blood pooling in the atria, increasing the risk for blood clots and subsequent complications, such as stroke. Bradycardia refers to a slower than normal heart rate, which does not involve the rapid contractions seen in atrial fibrillation. Ventricular tachycardia relates to fast contractions occurring in the ventricles, not the atria. Sinus rhythm indicates a normal and organized electrical pattern originating from the sinus node, which ensures effective contractions of the heart, contrasting sharply with the chaotic rhythm of atrial fibrillation.