Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

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What is the defined heart rate for infants experiencing supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?

180 beats per minute
220 beats per minute
200 beats per minute
150 beats per minute

The correct answer is: 220 beats per minute

In infants, supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is characterized by a significant increase in heart rate, typically defined as sustained rates exceeding a certain threshold. The threshold for diagnosing SVT in infants is generally recognized to be a heart rate of 220 beats per minute or higher. This elevated heart rate indicates that the heart is beating too quickly, which can lead to compromised cardiac output and other complications if sustained over time. Establishing this threshold is crucial for pediatric emergency nurses as it guides appropriate assessment and management of the condition. Recognizing and addressing SVT promptly is essential to prevent potential deterioration in the infant's clinical status. Therefore, defining SVT with a heart rate of 220 beats per minute provides a clear clinical marker for intervention and treatment in the emergency setting.