ABSTRACT

A normal heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats/min. Heart rhythm includes how the heart beats in addition to the heart rate, such as whether there is a consistent time interval between ventricular depolarization and atrial depolarization. Normal heart rhythm is described by specific waves on an ECG. These waves depict the electrical activity of the heart responsible for its mechanical movement. Treatment includes rate control and conversion to regular rhythm, but the specific methods of treatment vary depending on the underlying cardiac function and pathology. Primary asystole is caused by an intrinsic defect in the heart’s conduction system that results in a failure to generate ventricular depolarization. Caused by an electrical disturbance in the heart that decreases the ability of the heart to pump and compromises circulation.