Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

Which of the following conditions constitutes symptomatic bradycardia?

1. Stable blood pressure

2. Presence of a clear airway

3. Hypotension

4. Regular heart rhythm

The correct answer is: Hypotension

Symptomatic bradycardia is defined as a slower-than-normal heart rate that is accompanied by signs or symptoms indicating that the body is not receiving enough blood flow to meet its needs. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is one of the key signs of decreased perfusion and inadequate circulation. When a patient presents with bradycardia and also has hypotension, this condition can lead to serious organ dysfunction or even shock, making it critical to address. Other conditions such as stable blood pressure or the presence of a clear airway may indicate a situation where the patient is stable, but they do not necessarily reflect the immediate threats posed by symptomatic bradycardia. In addition, a regular heart rhythm, while significant in assessment, does not imply that the heart rate is appropriate or that the patient is stable. Thus, hypotension is a defining factor indicating that the bradycardia is causing symptoms that require intervention.