Bradycardia in adults is defined as heart rate less than what?

Bradycardia in adults is defined as heart rate less than what?

• A. 60-100 bpm
• B. less than 60 bpm
• C. greater than 100 bpm
• D. 80-90 bpm

Answer: (B)

Bradycardia is defined by a resting heart rate being too slow for the body's needs. In adults, the normal resting range is about 60 to 100 beats per minute. Therefore, a heart rate below 60 beats per minute is considered bradycardia. This threshold helps clinicians decide when to look for underlying causes or symptoms, since a slower rate can sometimes be harmless (as in well-trained athletes) but can also indicate issues like sinus node dysfunction, conduction blocks, or effects from medications or metabolic problems. If the slow rate is accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or fainting, or if there are signs of poor perfusion, it warrants further evaluation and possible treatment.

Bradycardia is defined by a resting heart rate being too slow for the body's needs. In adults, the normal resting range is about 60 to 100 beats per minute. Therefore, a heart rate below 60 beats per minute is considered bradycardia. This threshold helps clinicians decide when to look for underlying causes or symptoms, since a slower rate can sometimes be harmless (as in well-trained athletes) but can also indicate issues like sinus node dysfunction, conduction blocks, or effects from medications or metabolic problems. If the slow rate is accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or fainting, or if there are signs of poor perfusion, it warrants further evaluation and possible treatment.