What type of heartbeat variability does the term 'arrhythmia' describe?

The term 'arrhythmia' refers to an irregular heart rhythm. This encompasses a variety of abnormal heartbeats, which can occur in many different forms, such as skips, pauses, or variations in the rhythm's speed and regularity. Understanding arrhythmia is crucial for EMTs, as it can indicate underlying health issues and may require immediate intervention, depending on the severity and nature of the irregularity. Monitoring and recognizing arrhythmias allows for appropriate treatment and management of patients experiencing cardiac concerns.

The other options refer to specific heart rate conditions, such as tachycardia (an increased heart rate), bradycardia (a low heart rate), and normal heart rate, none of which fully capture the broader definition of arrhythmia.