What heart rate defines bradycardia in telemetry monitoring?

• A. A heart rate less than 70 beats per minute
• B. A heart rate less than 60 beats per minute
• C. A heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute
• D. A heart rate between 60-100 beats per minute

Answer: (B)

Bradycardia is defined as a condition where the heart rate is abnormally slow. In the context of telemetry monitoring, bradycardia is specifically identified as a heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute. This threshold is clinically significant because a heart rate below this level can indicate that the heart is not pumping effectively enough to meet the body's needs, potentially leading to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or even fainting. Understanding bradycardia is important for telemetry technicians, as it helps them identify patients who may require further evaluation or intervention based on their heart rate readings.