Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

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What is considered bradycardic for an adult?

Heart rate more than 100
Heart rate between 80 to 100
Heart rate less than 60
Heart rate exactly 60

The correct answer is: Heart rate less than 60

Bradycardia in adults is defined as a heart rate that is less than 60 beats per minute. This condition signifies a slower than normal heart rate, which can be a result of various factors including cardiac issues, physiological adaptations in athletes, or other medical conditions. Understanding the normal ranges for heart rate is crucial for assessing a patient’s cardiovascular status. The normal resting heart rate for adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. Therefore, any heart rate below 60 indicates bradycardia, which can lead to inadequate blood flow to vital organs if the rate is significantly low or if it is associated with symptoms such as dizziness or fainting. While a heart rate above 100 indicates tachycardia, and a heart rate in the 80 to 100 range falls within the normal range, they do not qualify as bradycardic. A heart rate exactly at 60 is still considered normal, hence it does not meet the criteria for bradycardia. Understanding this definition is essential for proper assessment and intervention in emergency situations.