What is the rate range for atrial fibrillation?

What is the rate range for atrial fibrillation?

• A. 150-250 beats per minute
• B. 250-350 beats per minute
• C. 350-450 beats per minute
• D. 450-500 beats per minute

Answer: (C)

Atrial fibrillation is characterized by a rapid and irregular heartbeat that generally does not have a consistent rhythm. The ventricular response rate in atrial fibrillation can vary significantly, often shifting in response to the underlying characteristics of the patient's heart and conduction system.

The typical rate range for atrial fibrillation during episodes can be quite variable; however, it's generally recognized that the ventricular rate can exceed 100 beats per minute when in a rapid state. While the ventricular rate can occasionally go higher, it is less common for it to reach the extremely elevated rates seen in the higher ranges mentioned.

A trial fibrillation can feature a wide range of ventricular rates. The range of 350-450 beats per minute mentioned in the choice is indicative of a theoretical upper limit that reflects an extreme situation and is not representative of the typical clinical picture, where rates often stay below this threshold.

Understanding the context of atrial fibrillation includes recognizing that it predominantly leads to varying heart rates that exceed the standard resting heart rate, but extreme values mentioned in some choices can lead to decreased organ perfusion and further complications in a clinical context.