What is the minimum adult heart rate for tachycardia?

What is the minimum adult heart rate for tachycardia?

• A. 80 bpm
• B. 60 bpm
• C. 100 bpm
• D. 120 bpm

Answer: (C)

Tachycardia is defined as a heart rate that exceeds the normal range. For adults, the threshold that indicates tachycardia is typically set at a resting heart rate of 100 beats per minute (bpm) or higher. This elevated heart rate can be a response to various factors, including stress, exercise, or medical conditions such as fever or anemia.

Understanding the definition of tachycardia helps in recognizing its clinical significance. Heart rates below 100 bpm, such as 80 bpm or even 60 bpm, fall within the normal range and do not indicate tachycardia. Similarly, while 120 bpm is above the threshold for tachycardia, the specific minimum cutoff that defines tachycardia is established at 100 bpm. It is important for healthcare professionals to identify tachycardia in order to assess underlying causes and determine appropriate management strategies.