Which term specifically describes a rapid heart rhythm originating in the ventricles?

• A. Atrial Fibrillation
• B. Ventricular Tachycardia
• C. Sinus Tachycardia
• D. Junctional Tachycardia

Answer: (B)

Rapid heart rhythms are categorized by where they start. When the impulse comes from the ventricles, the rhythm is ventricular tachycardia. This term precisely describes a fast rate that originates in ventricular tissue, which typically produces wide QRS complexes on the ECG due to the abnormal path the impulse takes through the ventricles. The rate is usually above 100 beats per minute and can be sustained or intermittent, and it can cause dizziness, palpitations, or more serious hemodynamic issues if not treated.

Other common tachycardias originate elsewhere. A rhythm starting in the sinus node is sinus tachycardia, which usually has a regular rhythm and narrow QRS complexes. A rhythm arising in the atria is atrial fibrillation, which is irregularly irregular and lacks discrete P waves. A rhythm from the AV junction is junctional tachycardia, often with a narrow QRS and P waves that may be hidden or inverted in relation to the QRS.

Ventricular tachycardia is the best description for a rapid rhythm that begins in the ventricles.