Your 100 year old patient has a heart rate of 70 BPM but then it suddenly accelerates to 180 BPM for a short time and then it goes back to the original rate. Analysis of the ECG reveals a regular rhythm with one upright P wave preceding each narrow QRS complex (until it suddenly accelerates). The fast heart rate shows wide QRS complexes without a P wave preceding them. This type of irregularity is called ________ irregularity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The description matches paroxysmal irregularity, where the heart rate suddenly accelerates for a short period and then returns to normal. This is characteristic of paroxysmal tachycardia, where episodes of fast heart rates start and stop abruptly.

Your 100 Year Old Patient Has a Heart Rate of 70