Which value defines bradycardia in adults?

Which value defines bradycardia in adults?

• A. Less than 60 beats/min
• B. Greater than 100 beats/min
• C. 60-100 beats/min
• D. Less than 40 beats/min

Answer: (A)

Bradycardia means a slower-than-normal heart rate when at rest. In adults, a typical resting range is about 60 to 100 beats per minute, so a heart rate that drops below 60 beats per minute is considered bradycardia. This threshold helps distinguish it from the normal range and from tachycardia, which is a rate above 100. While heart rates under 60 can be normal for well-trained athletes or during sleep, in practical clinical terms bradycardia is defined by that sub-60 hold. Very slow rates, such as under 40, indicate more severe bradycardia and are more likely to be clinically important, especially if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or hypotension. In the field, you’d evaluate both the rate and the patient’s perfusion and signs of instability to decide on management.

Bradycardia means a slower-than-normal heart rate when at rest. In adults, a typical resting range is about 60 to 100 beats per minute, so a heart rate that drops below 60 beats per minute is considered bradycardia. This threshold helps distinguish it from the normal range and from tachycardia, which is a rate above 100. While heart rates under 60 can be normal for well-trained athletes or during sleep, in practical clinical terms bradycardia is defined by that sub-60 hold. Very slow rates, such as under 40, indicate more severe bradycardia and are more likely to be clinically important, especially if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or hypotension. In the field, you’d evaluate both the rate and the patient’s perfusion and signs of instability to decide on management.