Certified Cardiovascular Technician Practice Exam

What is the normal heart rate range for an adult patient?

1. 40-60 beats per minute

2. 60-100 beats per minute

3. 100-120 beats per minute

4. 80-120 beats per minute

The correct answer is: 60-100 beats per minute

The normal heart rate range for an adult patient is widely recognized as 60 to 100 beats per minute. This range denotes the typical rhythm expected when the body is at rest and is an indicative measure of cardiac function. Heart rates falling within this range suggest that the heart is functioning effectively, supporting adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body. A heart rate lower than this range, such as 40 to 60 beats per minute, could indicate bradycardia, which might be a sign of underlying health issues or conditioning, particularly in athletes. Conversely, a heart rate above 100 beats per minute suggests tachycardia, which could be a response to various factors including stress, anxiety, dehydration, or more serious medical conditions. The other ranges provided do not align with established clinical guidelines for what constitutes a normal resting heart rate for adults and may reflect conditions that require further evaluation or monitoring. Thus, the choice reflecting 60 to 100 beats per minute accurately describes the expected physiological range for healthy adults.