A resting heart rate slower than 60 beats per minute is called:

• A. Tachycardia
• B. Arrhythmia
• C. Heart failure
• D. Bradycardia

Answer: (D)

A resting heart rate below 60 beats per minute is called bradycardia. The prefix “brady-” means slow, so this term identifies a slower-than-normal heart rate. Tachycardia would mean a rapid heart rate, typically over 100 bpm. Arrhythmia refers to an abnormal rhythm, which can be fast, slow, or irregular, but it doesn’t specify the rate itself. Heart failure is a condition in which the heart’s pumping action is inadequate, not a description of heart rate. In practice, bradycardia can be normal in some people, such as well-trained athletes, but it may require assessment if there are symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or fainting.