What physiological condition does bradycardia describe?

Bradycardia specifically refers to a slower than normal heart rate, typically defined as a heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute in adults. This condition can occur as a result of various factors, including increased vagal tone, certain medical conditions, physical fitness levels, or as a side effect of medications. Understanding bradycardia is crucial for nurses as it can significantly impact the cardiac output and overall health of a patient. Identifying and managing bradycardia is important, especially if it is associated with symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or fainting. The other options represent different heart rate conditions that do not accurately capture the definition of bradycardia.