Which condition is identified by a slow heart rate?

Bradycardia is the term used to define a slow heart rate, typically characterized by a resting heart rate of fewer than 60 beats per minute in adults. This condition can occur in various situations, such as during sleep or in well-trained athletes whose bodies adapt to physical exertion. Bradycardia may be an indication of underlying health issues or a response to medications, and in some cases, it can lead to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or fainting.

Understanding bradycardia is crucial because it contrasts significantly with other heart rhythm conditions. For example, tachycardia refers to an increased heart rate, while flutter involves a rapid, chaotic heartbeat that does not allow effective blood pumping. Fibrillation, on the other hand, describes a condition where the heart beats in a disorganized manner, which can be life-threatening. Recognizing the characteristics of these various conditions is essential in the field of medical scribing for accurate documentation and communication in patient care.