Which of the following is a characteristic of bradycardia?

• A. Increased heart rate
• B. Reduced heart rate
• C. Rapid breathing
• D. High blood pressure

Answer: (B)

Bradycardia is defined as a condition where an individual's heart rate is slower than normal, typically measured as less than 60 beats per minute in adults. This slowed heart rate can result from various physiological or pathological conditions and is often accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, or fainting.

Understanding this condition is crucial in veterinary practice because bradycardia may indicate underlying health issues in food animals, requiring careful monitoring and potentially intervention. In contrast, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and high blood pressure describe opposite physiological states, making them unrelated to the concept of bradycardia. Recognizing the characteristics of bradycardia is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning in veterinary medicine.