Which term describes a faster-than-normal heart rate that originates above the ventricles?

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

Answer: (D)

A rapid heart rate that starts above the ventricles is described as supraventricular tachycardia. This means the electrical impulse driving the heart originates from tissue above the ventricles—typically the atria or the AV node—producing a fast rhythm that is usually narrow in appearance on the ECG. This term fits best because it identifies both the elevated rate and the site of origin above the ventricles, distinguishing it from rhythms that start in the ventricles.

In contrast, ventricular tachycardia originates in the ventricles and typically presents with wide QRS complexes and can be more unstable. Sinus tachycardia is a fast rate caused by the SA node and often reflects a normal physiologic response to activity, fever, or stress, with a normal P wave before each QRS. Atrial fibrillation involves irregular, chaotic atrial activity with an irregular rhythm, not a single, regular supraventricular rhythm.