What is the minimum heart rate associated with Supraventricular Tachycardia?

Prepare for the Paramedic Cardiology Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question has hints and explanations. Boost your confidence and readiness for your exam!

Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) is characterized by a rapid heart rate originating above the ventricles, typically involving the atria or the atrioventricular node. The minimum heart rate that is generally accepted for diagnosing SVT is 150 beats per minute (bpm). This threshold is significant because rates below this level are generally not considered to be indicative of SVT; they may instead be attributed to other forms of tachycardia or normal sinus tachycardia.

The reason 150 bpm is chosen as the threshold is that it helps distinguish SVT from other fast heart rhythms and ensures that the patient is experiencing a clinically relevant condition. In practice, medical professionals monitor symptoms and the clinical context of the patient's condition alongside the measured heart rate. Thus, understanding that a heart rate of at least 150 bpm is required to classify a situation as SVT is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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