Certified Cardiovascular Technician Practice Exam

What would be considered a normal heart rate for an adult?

1. 40-60 beats per minute

2. 60-100 beats per minute

3. 100-120 beats per minute

4. 120-140 beats per minute

The correct answer is: 60-100 beats per minute

A normal resting heart rate for adults typically falls within the range of 60 to 100 beats per minute. This range indicates that the cardiovascular system is functioning adequately to meet the body's needs during rest. Factors such as age, fitness level, and overall health can influence an individual's resting heart rate. When a person's heart rate is below 60 beats per minute, it may indicate bradycardia, which can sometimes be physiological in well-trained athletes or may suggest underlying health issues. Conversely, a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute could be classified as tachycardia, which often warrants further investigation to determine the cause, as it may be due to stress, anxiety, or medical conditions. Understanding the normal range is crucial for cardiovascular technicians, as deviations from this norm can be significant indicators of heart health or dysfunction. Therefore, the range of 60 to 100 beats per minute is recognized in medical literature and guidelines as the standard for adult resting heart rates.