What does the "P-R" interval indicate?

The "P-R" interval on an ECG represents the time taken for electrical impulses to travel from the sinoatrial (SA) node, where the heartbeat originates, to the atrioventricular (AV) node. This interval captures the duration from the onset of atrial depolarization (indicated by the P wave) to the start of ventricular depolarization (indicated by the beginning of the QRS complex).

This is a crucial measurement because it reflects how effectively the electrical signal is being transmitted through the heart's conduction system. A normal P-R interval indicates proper function of the conduction pathways. If the P-R interval is prolonged, it may suggest issues such as first-degree heart block, where the conduction through the AV node is delayed.

The other choices do not accurately represent the P-R interval's purpose. The interval is not measuring ventricular contraction time, the specific onset of atrial contractions, or the timing of ventricular repolarization. Each of those processes has distinct markers and intervals on the ECG that serve to provide different information about heart function.