What characterizes a capture beat during a V-tach?

What characterizes a capture beat during a V-tach?

• A. Wide and bizarre QRS complexes
• B. Fast atrial rate with normal ventricular response
• C. A normal appearing QRS complex occurring amidst V-tach
• D. Grouped PVCs appearing before normal beats

Answer: (C)

A capture beat during a ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) is characterized by a normal appearing QRS complex that occurs in the midst of an ongoing episode of V-tach. This phenomenon occurs when a higher-level pacemaker, typically in the atria, successfully depolarizes the ventricles despite the dominance of the chaotic ventricular rhythm. The resulting QRS complex from the atrial impulse will resemble a typical QRS complex seen in normal sinus rhythm, as opposed to the distorted shapes of the wide and bizarre complexes generated by the V-tach itself.

This reveals that while the V-tach is occurring, there can be moments when the heart's natural rhythm is interrupted for a brief moment, allowing for a normal ventricular contraction. Recognizing capture beats is crucial as it indicates that some normal conduction is still occurring, and this knowledge can influence treatment decisions in managing tachyarrhythmias.

The other answer choices do not accurately describe a capture beat. The presence of wide and bizarre QRS complexes reflects the characteristics of V-tach itself rather than the capture beat. A fast atrial rate with a normal ventricular response typically does not occur during V-tach, and grouped PVCs appearing before normal beats describe a different rhythm pattern, unrelated