Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

What is considered tachycardic for an adult?

1. Heart rate less than 60

2. Heart rate more than 100

3. Heart rate between 60-100

4. Heart rate more than 120

The correct answer is: Heart rate more than 100

A heart rate of more than 100 beats per minute is defined as tachycardia in adults. Tachycardia indicates that the heart is beating faster than the normal rate, which typically ranges from about 60 to 100 beats per minute at rest. This increased heart rate can be a response to various factors, including stress, anxiety, fever, exercise, dehydration, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding this threshold is essential for EMTs, as it helps in assessing patient conditions and determining appropriate interventions or further evaluation. Accurate identification of tachycardia is critical in emergency situations, as it can indicate potential cardiovascular issues that may require immediate care.