What is the term for a PAB coupling to the end of a normal cycle?

What is the term for a PAB coupling to the end of a normal cycle?

• A. Atrial trigeminy
• B. Atrial bigeminy
• C. Signal averaging
• D. Supraventricular tachycardia

Answer: (B)

The term for a PAB (Premature Atrial Beat) coupling to the end of a normal cycle is referred to as atrial bigeminy. In this phenomenon, a normal heartbeat is followed by a premature atrial contraction, creating a pattern where every second beat is premature. This leads to an alternating rhythm that is characteristic of bigeminy.

Understanding atrial bigeminy involves recognizing that it indicates the presence of ectopic atrial activity, which is the hallmark of a premature atrial beat occurring after a standard sinus beat. The disturbed rhythm typically does not affect the overall heart rate significantly but can alter the electrocardiographic appearance. It is crucial in clinical settings as it signifies an underlying irritability of the atrial tissue and is important for diagnosis and management of arrhythmias.

In contrast, atrial trigeminy would involve every third beat being a premature atrial contraction, which is a different pattern, making it distinct from bigeminy. Signal averaging and supraventricular tachycardia pertain to different concepts in cardiac rhythm and measurements and do not represent the specific coupling of a PAB to the end of a normal cycle.