AFib with Rapid Ventricular Response is best described as which rhythm?

• A. Sinus Tachycardia
• B. Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Ventricular Response
• C. Supraventricular Tachycardia
• D. Torsades de Pointe

Answer: (B)

This rhythm is atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response. Atrial fibrillation creates an irregularly irregular rhythm with no distinct P waves and highly variable R-R intervals. When the ventricular rate is rapid, the AV node conducts impulses quickly, pushing the heart rate above 100 beats per minute. This combination specifically describes AF with a rapid ventricular response.

In contrast, sinus tachycardia would show a regular rhythm with visible P waves before each beat; supraventricular tachycardia is typically a regular, fast, narrow-complex rhythm often with hidden or abnormal P waves; torsades de pointes is a polymorphic ventricular tachycardia with twisting QRS complexes.