In an ECG where the AV node provides the pacing rhythm, the expected heart rate falls in which range?

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Multiple Choice

In an ECG where the AV node provides the pacing rhythm, the expected heart rate falls in which range?

Explanation:
When the heart’s primary pacemaker fails or is not driving, the next available pacemaker sets the rhythm. The AV node has slower automaticity than the SA node, producing an escape rhythm around 40–60 beats per minute. This is known as a junctional rhythm. The SA node normally paces at 60–100 bpm, while a ventricular escape rhythm would be slower (about 20–40 bpm), and speeds above 100 bpm point to tachyarrhythmias. So, AV node pacing typically results in a heart rate in the 40–60 bpm range, with P waves that may be absent or inverted depending on the timing of atrial activation relative to the QRS.

When the heart’s primary pacemaker fails or is not driving, the next available pacemaker sets the rhythm. The AV node has slower automaticity than the SA node, producing an escape rhythm around 40–60 beats per minute. This is known as a junctional rhythm. The SA node normally paces at 60–100 bpm, while a ventricular escape rhythm would be slower (about 20–40 bpm), and speeds above 100 bpm point to tachyarrhythmias. So, AV node pacing typically results in a heart rate in the 40–60 bpm range, with P waves that may be absent or inverted depending on the timing of atrial activation relative to the QRS.

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