What is the typical rate for a junctional escape rhythm?

What is the typical rate for a junctional escape rhythm?

• A. 40-60 bpm
• B. 60-100 bpm
• C. <40 bpm
• D. >100 bpm

Answer: (A)

When the primary pacemaker (the SA node) isn’t driving the heart, a backup pacemaker in the AV junction can take over. The AV junction has a slower intrinsic firing rate than the SA node, so its escape rhythm usually appears in the 40–60 beats per minute range. This distinguishes it from ventricular escape rhythms, which tend to be slower (often under 40 bpm), and from normal or tachycardic rhythms, which are faster (over 100 bpm). So the typical rate for a junctional escape rhythm is 40–60 bpm.

When the primary pacemaker (the SA node) isn’t driving the heart, a backup pacemaker in the AV junction can take over. The AV junction has a slower intrinsic firing rate than the SA node, so its escape rhythm usually appears in the 40–60 beats per minute range. This distinguishes it from ventricular escape rhythms, which tend to be slower (often under 40 bpm), and from normal or tachycardic rhythms, which are faster (over 100 bpm). So the typical rate for a junctional escape rhythm is 40–60 bpm.