What does tachycardia refer to?

Tachycardia refers to a condition characterized by an increased heart rate, typically defined as a resting heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute in adults. This physiological response can result from various factors, including stress, anxiety, fever, anemia, or underlying health conditions such as heart disease.

By understanding that tachycardia indicates a high heart rate, one can recognize the importance of monitoring heart rates in emergency medical situations, as it may signal distress or indicate an underlying issue that requires attention. Prompt recognition and appropriate management of tachycardia are crucial in the practice of emergency medicine.