Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

What term applies to any heartbeat that originates outside the SA node?

1. Recurrent impulse

2. Ectopic impulse

3. Eccentric impulse

4. Aberrant impulse

The correct answer is: Ectopic impulse

The term that applies to any heartbeat originating outside the SA node is known as an ectopic impulse. This terminology refers to situations where an impulse arises from an abnormal location, rather than the usual pace-setting node of the heart, which is the sinoatrial (SA) node. When the heart beats in this manner, it indicates that other cells within the heart, such as those in the atria or ventricles, are generating their own electrical signals, leading to potential variations in heart rhythm. Ectopic impulses can occur for various reasons, including ischemia, structural heart disease, or increased sympathetic tone, and they can manifest as premature beats or more sustained arrhythmias. Understanding this concept is crucial for healthcare providers as it allows for better diagnosis and management of various cardiac conditions. The other terms may seem relevant but do not accurately describe beats originating outside the SA node. For instance, recurrent impusles may suggest a repetitive firing behavior but doesn't specifically denote an impulse originating from an abnormal site. Eccentric impulse is not a recognized term in this context, while aberrant impulses typically refer to impulses that follow an abnormal pathway through the conduction system, rather than describing the origin of the beat. Thus, ectopic impulse is the most appropriate and